You will get one maybe 80% of what you want and have to adjust systems or supplement from there IMO.Choose wisely, switching is a big PITA

Once you have a clear picture of what your goals are, seek out a mentor who's already achieved what you're aiming for.

I aim to apply my real estate knowledge to build a portfolio of rental properties, starting with single and multifamily homes and eventually expanding to apartments.Should I pursue a degree in financial planning or accounting to complement my minor?

This should be done without expecting an increase in rent because the aim is to provide tenants with more convenience and it should not come at the cost of rent increase.

I have a small health care benefit from my local government career, and I have VA health care since I'm ex-military but it's not as good as it used to be (too many people in the system, too few providers at the VA) so I am planning on buying a supplement on the marketplace when open enrollment comes in November.

You could aim to purchase near those areas that are already or set to boom even more with large commercial projects going on. 

I encourage you to become the best in the asset class you are aiming. 

Know what you want out of your investment and when, aiming for a home that fits your needs and can grow in value.

Next, if your aim is to do development, I think its very important to start off with a vision.

Unfortunately you're not paying him enough (and he's not charging himself enough) to stay on your project all the time so he has to create supplemental income.