How do I transition to RE Asset Management from an Ops. Role in a Multifamily REIT?

I'm up against two hurdles:  1. going from an Ops role to a finance role.  2.  I have a wide resume gap in traditional employment.

I have a B.S. in Finance and a background in Operations for a top multifamily REIT.  My last title was Operations Analyst / Manager and I'd describe the role as part revenue manager, pricing analyst, internal consultant, and sales team manager. I didn't make decisions on CAPEX, big contracts, didn't mess with FP&A, development or aquisitions.

I left the REIT out of boredome and to explore machine learning.  In the time since leaving, I did a Data Science bootcamp, closed a couple enterprise real estate insurance deals, been working as a freelancer doing custom reporting and analytics.  I also spent a lot of time actively managing my cash through stock & options trading (which most people look down on).

I figure to get an interview, I need to demonstrate a mastery of the financial concepts and other skills required; are there any projects I could complete and present on a website portfolio page?  How else can I show I have what it takes to succeed?

Then for interviews -- what are some resources that will help me discover any knowledge gaps and then fill them?  Are there any good interview prep or compilation of case studies available?

Should I seek out a career coach that specialize in CRE and Asset Management?

Is it worth it to pay for ARGUS certification?

I'm thinking I should definitely brush up on modeling skills and go through case studies...I'm looking at material from WallStreetOasis; any other suggestions?

What models should I focus on?