Summer is always busier than winter. 

My dilemma is to convert before winter OR save up and do it next fall.

I have seen high demand for my rentals in the early summer months compared to winter months.

If so, you can study the materials on your own and take the examination when you please without satisfying the hourly requirement.Sorry, I took an in person accelerated course in the winter months so I can't help you with online courses.

At one small 8 unit apartment complex in Shaker Heights 1/2 the roof blew off in the winter of 2015 5 months after I purchased it. 

They wanted out early, before the second winter and prices had appreciated so much that we couldn't even afford to buy them out!

Ergo I am selling all my units.. like those in the North east that I had and real cold winters I would let them go a few months without paying so they could heat the house  etc etc.So if it was me given this event I would probably give them 60 days at least..

The biggest issue is having enough money in reserves, before doing all the improvements and dealing with vacancies in the winter (not good in NE Ohio by the way)  I would NOT want any vacancies between November and March or April in NE Ohio. 

Many lawn care people do snow as well in the winter, so I would suggest keeping an eye out for them.

After the winter it will be time to assess whether to take another stab at selling the home, or continuing to rent for another year.