I'd recommend building up a base of knowledge, then using the bootcamp to take actionable steps. good luck!

I also called a house that's in my neighborhood with a for sale sign, didn't pick up the first time around noon, and I shoot her a text, didn't response.

Talk to the local building official and get their take on the building's status.

These are 1 bedroom/1bath units, 650sq ft, priced under $700 a month so I dont think its competition from the newer buildings that cant afford to price rent so low.We maintain the units very well and have recently renovated a bunch of them with lvp flooring, new cabinets, etc.

I think it works for a great buy and hold rental situation, but it is probably a class C neighborhood and you will need to put a lot of money to rehab a 1950's property to get it rent ready.

As for whether one has to get quid pro quo in increased rent for improvements, there is also a factor of the quality and longevity of the tenants one gets with an upgraded apartment even when rents are limited by neighborhood competitive pressures. 

Great neighborhoods, great ARVs but the number off the MLS will not work and investors with deep pockets make cash offers that can knock financing offers out. 

- Ability to Partner on Deals With the Mentor: This one sort of builds off the first one, but when my brothers and I started out in the multifamily space, we didn't have a track record or credibility.

I invest primarily in Detroit (12-doors there), but I'm also building an ADU here at my primary. 

My partner and I want to find a bank to open a checking, and obviously build a relationship for later for any financial needs we may have.