Point is, by your own statement you already have the best resource available, at hand, to answer all of this, and then some. 

Beats Pappadeauxs hands down plus less expensive.

I am looking for any type of avenue that would give me first hand experience in any aspect of real estate investing, managing, etc. 

My favorite way to collect rent, bar none, is still waiting on my porch for my tenants go come by and hand me wads of cash.

On one hand, I feel that it is a great property and a great time to buy while competition is low.

How much of your free-time goes into research versus actual hands-on work on-site?

I would get a little Bissel hand held and have it available to guests to use.

I am really intrested on real estate and getting hands on with basics required really excited and also nervous about this new journey but the goal is to be financially independent 

As @Nicholas L. said, property management is always an option too if you want a full hands off experience but can afford it. 

My partner and I would run and complete all construction and inspections.Has anyone had experience with this and if so, does anyone have a GC in TN that may be interested in this opportunity for hands off passive income?