There's no right or wrong way to do this, just varying levels of risk and the only proper route is the one you understand. 

I’m looking for connections with local property managers and realtors as well as for general information on the Rochester rental market, including cost-to-rent ratios, saturation levels, and regulations.

Ask them about neighborhoods and get details at a street level.

This range often lacks economies of scale and doesn’t attract institutional-level investors.

What level of engagement do I really want with my properties?

Like someone else said, your RE licensure exam is going to touch on creative financing in a very surface level way, if at all.

Ultimately, your decision should align with your comfort level regarding your finances, personal needs, and the housing market outlook.

Hi @Shibu ThomasThere are many garden level apartments in my area, They have low ceilings and sound similar to what you are describing. 

Main exterior first. 1 photo.Next photo highlighting best aspect of main level.

Most likely you don't know much about the ground level work and must trust your professionals to give you the right advices for you to make decisions on.