Just because a site is zoned for commercial apartment houses, does not mean you MUST utilize the zone for that.

Again, thanks for any and all help as well as other suggestions that correlate to the path I am trying to take!

For starters, I suggest that you tune in to the BiggerPockets Podcast. 

I'd suggest getting a simple CRM setup (go small at first like google sheet or podio) and just start setting a few hours aside to call and text them.

Like Andres suggested, you may target zones that the city is offering incentives for and/or zones that have seen some gentrification already. 

If you're really interested in that market, I would suggest talking with some local STR PM companies and see what they say about the numbers.

But if you're set on investing out of state, I would suggest settling on a market you plan to invest in and then begin making connections/interviewing local professionals to assemble your core 4.

He suggested my goals are too low, encouraging me to aim higher given my age, being single, and having the time to learn and accumulate wealth.

Thrill, adrenaline & architectural challenge given the highly complex site.

Most of my knowledge, gleaned from online resources, suggests areas like New York or California for properties with high appreciation potential.