We're also able to evaluate our rates, and keep pace with inflation, on a monthly and quarterly basis because of shorter term leases.Now we syndicate larger self-storage deals and work with passive investors.

You can assume any government loan as long as you meet the requirements.

Before you have clarity in what you want to buy, I think you need clarity on what your goals are not just for real estate but in terms of how you want you life to look.

I am licensed real estate agent, with the main objective to try and use my license for real estate investing, but I could not figure out how to effectively use my license for investing. 

This is another area I don't focus my attention on - we buy/hold long term. 

Anyone know an option to get funds out of my STVRs on favorable terms? 

You have to be willing to play the long game and overpay with the intent that eventually after renovations you will take maximum market rent and turn a profit.

If the numbers broke even at 3.5%, investors would be flocking to buy that property putting 20% down.House Hacking is about the long term gain.

I think they call that a long term rental. :)Seriously, it will be treated like a LTR.

My options usually include the all cash/quick close to flip myself, listing it (as an agent) but also offering the seller to do a JV flip together, I could wholesale it, offer to buy it myself for a BRRRR or other long term personal investment, etc.