This ~2500 sq ft Victorian duplex on ~5,000 sq ft lot, adjacent to Steelworks lofts, has more than 3br/2ba in each unit, some extra space, nice size backyard, and a quick walk to Emeryville shopping centers and some new development.

Happy to talk shop if you're curious about how to get your feet wet, don't hesitate to reach out.Cheers!

I know I have to shop around for loans from smaller banks, but what would be best?

I agree that you should use an agent to sell your house as they can plug you into MLS which is where the serious retail buyers shop.  

A good one will work with you in your market, help you "set up shop", and get you up and running with something that should put enough money to at least pay for your training in a matter of weeks. 

Shops and restaurants were closed in that little section by the clock tower and I was wondering why. 

Are you going to be shopping this property at networking events?

Good contractors typically don't shop at the box stores or are just their to get a few things.Anyone who has their act together buys from wholesalers, if you want recommendations talk to them.

Now the kicker is this huge shop that is on the property that Zillow doesn't mention anything about.

It all looks legit, I would however work on your Lender or shop for one with Lower Origination fees, I pay a $250 Origination/doc prep on mine just for a point of reference.