I'd encourage you to devour the book So Good They Can't Ignore You by Cal Newport ASAP. 

I strongly encourage you to continue what you're doing (reading, research, and learning the numbers).

It is a reminder that I still have a lot of work to do, but is also encouraging and exciting because I love the process of learning new things.

I am not a fan of signing any contract, I've never had to and wouldn't encourage it. 

Nonetheless, I encourage you to find lenders locally to where you are investing.Go to Meetup.com and contact some local real estate club owners.

@Jacki F.I might encourage you to watch some youtube videos on things you are having done so you’ll have some understanding for what something is or how involved it is.

For this reason, I'll refrain from posting them here and encourage you to do your research to find the answer. 

For now, I encourage everyone in CO to go to the Action Center of the NREIA at https://nationalreia.org/advoc... to formally send a letter to our representatives to oppose the current house bill HB21-1121.  

You own the building and still need insurance protection.2) It is completely normal to have rent start upon the issuance of a C of O in a retail space.3) You didn't screw it up.  4) When speaking with industry professionals I would encourage you to ask lots of questions and get referrals from people you trust. 

I highly encourage you to look at overall returns vs strictly cashflow, unless you really only want cashflow