I am a logistic analysts by trade and would like to get into real estate investing.

I’m interested in learning the trade so as to become my own GC in rehabbing properties...

So when the recession hit, I bought deals when no one could.Also, everyone traded down (in terms of their lifestyle).

I'd say don't worry about the tricks of the trade - learn the trade!

This includes no repairs or improvements whatsoever.

Usually there is a tuition fee for this, which your GI Bill might cover.In many areas, the various trade unions operate a school and apprenticeship system. 

Anyone worth anything in the trades wouldn't work for less than 25 per hour.

I left my corporate job almost 2 years ago to move closer to home (family), and saw this as an opportunity to learn the contracting trade working with my cousin who operates a construction business.

Good [enough] management for an SFR is easy to find, and not worth trading equity for in my opinion.

If you only have one project going you can do it yourself, but you will pay more for trades people than if you had a GC getting the bids.