You have two choices, hire someone who is willing to teach you how to estimate (online or physical), or self-teach by buying some books like J Scott's book or Construction installation encyclopedia.

Being ok with walking away from groups & individuals or just tolerating them is also something to expect/experience.I suggest REI groups.  

To determine the exact standards that you need to conform with, you will need to fully investigate your individual state statutes and regulations and or hire the appropriate licensed contractors and licensed property managers.   

Separate utilities, laundry and each has a one car garage with individual access.

I know little about private money such as deal structures, avg rates, and finding individuals interested in such deals.

At least with a family they will all move at once and won't try to get out of the lease individually. 

I hope to use REI as a vehicle to teach them about the value of hard work, money management, and investing ... my thought that these lessons will be much more valuable than the assets themselves.

If you want to do this "by the book" (legally and without violating copyright law), you can lease the Realtor forms and use them as an unlicensed individual.

I am talking about a multi-week class that teaches you how to relate to people.

Get in front of each individual in your sphere at least every 3 months.