I'm originally from Arizona but moved to California two years ago to teach high school math in Stockton.

The class only teaches the subjects you need to know, you still have to study for the exam. 

Seasoning, an important question that must be considered, whatever the policy the individual lender may have, make sure you receive this in writing. 4.

Are any of the properties individually titled or is there one title covering all 4 buildings?  

It will teach you how to structure any kind of business deal the right way and how to recognize when a deal is set up the wrong way.

As a FEW examples: how do you value the individual units so the other person can "buy out" the partner. 

Start attending some local meetups and networking with individuals in the city.  

Unless the properties are in close vicinity for easier management, I suspect they will sell individually.

There are a wealth of knowledgeable individuals on this site with many years of experience in building wealth through real estate investing who are happy to answer and help driven new guys discover the way.

Books and podcasts are highly valuable education tools, but they don't teach you how does it FEEL to be an investor.