Attending these events will help you network with experienced investors and build a solid educational foundation in real estate before you take the plunge.

After that my contractor will be taking a look at the foundation and roof for me before i place any deposit.

You don't need to know everything to get started; you need a foundation to build on and the rest will come through experience and then refining your education.You can build a basic understanding of investing in 3-6 months.

3. requiring heavy amount of rehab (siding, foundation, roof, HVAC, appliances)?

You don't need to know everything to get started; you need a foundation to build on and the rest will come through experience and then refining your education.You can build a basic understanding of investing in 3-6 months.

Foundations.

Slowly but surely my eyes are awakening to the many avenues in RE.I suggest ignore the various "cast's" of any kind and start at foundational elements.

Did you ask the landlord if they have bolted the house to the foundation?

There was an example about plants near the foundation as depreciable.Would this count as improvement to increase cost basis (as improvement)?    

Hopefully it's out from under the foundation and beyond any porch or landscaping outside the building - and it isn't under a driveway.Next hire someone to repair just that section.