My goal is to develop the SYSTEM that systematically works to find off-market leads, acquires them, fix them enough to raise the rents, and either flip them or hold them (hold is preferred). 

I find that all prospective military tenants and most non-military tenants prefer and ask for UNFURNISHED.

I will say that taking it online was pretty boring to me, and all else being equal I would have preferred a traditional classroom setting.    

If possible, I would also like to shadow, or preferably assist someone who is either in the same boat or already has experience. 

.- Even if we didn't change policies or terms, can we update the existing leases to the buyers preferred contract if the basic tenant cost and amenities, etc don't change?

I believe there are faster, more assured ways of developing long term cash flow than through owning rentals. 

That's one reason I prefer the DST structure, but both structures have their pros and cons. 

I'd prefer to work with someone local.Again any info on local hard money lenders would be greatly appreciated!

Kind of seems like they prefer experienced investors too....

I'm most assuredly a "newbie"; new to self-storage, new to commercial real estate and new to construction.