The law firm that handled the transaction (and 95% of my previous transactions) needed some pushing to get things done.

I.e. how far are you pushing the line?

I do have all my eggs in this basket because I do believe that we are growing and improving ahead of many comparable midwestern states. 

Really excited to learn more and to speak with those (most ideally who live near me with whom I could meet up in person, but definitely not a deal breaker) who are in a similar stage or perhaps just ahead of me, from whom I can learn and feel supported by as I venture into this new world.

It sounds like you're ahead of the game here because you're focusing on your local market, which certainly makes things much easier. 

The 13 million-square-foot demand increase was mainly due to new pre-leased spaces becoming available.Looking ahead, demand for retail space is expected to remain strong despite upcoming store closures, as expansion plans from tenants are likely to offset vacancies.

And heck - go ahead and keep what you have and try to salvage it so you're not bleeding.

Bottom line - All hype, bs, misinterpretation, opinion bias, etc aside, sellers willing “owner finance” the sale of their property for one reason - and one reason only: They PERCEIVE that they are getting a higher price for their property by owner financing than by a cash (cash to them) sale.The “perceive” part is why buyers can sometimes structure terms ridiculously one sided in their favor - because some sellers are so focused on PRICE they become oblivious to anything else.It’s why I and numerous others have been able to structure 20 year owner financing loans at ZERO interest; why sellers have accepted “substitution of collateral” that gave them a lien on recreational land I had rather than their own income producing property; why sellers accept second position liens and allow buyers to obtain new first mortgages ahead of theirs (subordination), and why sellers always accept mortgages without my personal guarantee.I myself sell properties and provide owner financing to obtain a higher price.

Push through this, find new, better management systems/company, and know that someday it will get easier when the kiddos aren't needing you so much and the homes will appreciate over that time even more!

Even if the ARV is the same and the rent is the same, if adding an amenity will attract and keep better tenants longer you could still end up ahead.