You can reach out to your local (state) Self Storage Association, peruse topics on You Tube, and certainly many, many forums here on Biggerpockets with quality folks & quality content.Regardless, of how you piece your learning together, everything (soup to nuts) for an Acquisition is either FINDING a lead, EVALUATING to determine if it's a deal, now you're in the PURCHASING phase, and after you close, now it's all about MANAGING.If you think that at times it makes more sense to build than to buy, then you'll want to learn about Development & Conversions.  

And next make sure you have enough for your down payment and closing costs.

I find that the one percent rule is merely a way to scan (mostly on market) properties to see how close they are to cash flow.

We close on our third rental property next week, and are excited about the way forward. 

If you're thinking of Nevada the Reno market is very strong with appreciation and close enough to the Bay area to reach in a day. 

@Megan Branson I am also from CA and just closed on my first property in Cleveland. 

Yes, but I've heard you have to double close because of regulations.

Quick close.

Overall, I would keep in mind that you'll likely need to look at/review 100 deals to find that "1" that works and your close on... so volume is key.

For distressed properties I intend to keep as rentals, the buyer pool is greatly reduced and being able to close cash and waive inspections provides a lot of negotiating power.