When I initially looked into it, it seemed like it would not be cost effective for C class buildings without fancy key card access points, but maybe something has changed. 

The classes are very straightforward and I didn't think the school or state tests were difficult, although A LOT of people have to take them more than once before passing. 

I would like to simply host or take part in small group meetings to discuss deals and share ideas in a "iron sharpens iron" type of in-person environment.  

Contact several Brokers and see if you can do a staging presentation at a meeting or do an entire class.

Depends on the asset class within commercial and a ton of other metrics.

I’m making an offer on a 48 unit complex C class property, every property manager in the area has declined interest in managing the property due to the crime in the area.

Under $150k would buy you a 3/1 in a C class neighborhood here with good cash flow.  

Until the job market slows along with a slow down in population movement into the Austin MSA, real estate environment will continually be a buyers market.  

Then, I'd go to Udemy for some low cost classes.

I would also advise getting any kind of hands-on experience you can.....offer to help friends with their remodels, take the free classes at Home Depot, volunteer for Habitat, Etc....this is how you really make money in RE (IMO)