Other options could look like a property closer to you or in an area you are more familiar with, could be turnkey options with an established company, could be partnering with someone to gain some experience. 

Do you feel that these courses provided valuable and actionable information, or did you find them to be more of a sales pitch?

would be valuable.

I thought all 30 year mortgages require only 12 months occupancy.It seems to be a lose-lose since the lender loses the interest on an otherwise good loan if it had to be sold, and they gain nothing.  

If you do and find it valuable, sign up for the full meal deal.   

The knowledge you gain from it will enable you to grow 10X in the future.

Even in a perfect world with no maintenance and no vacancy, you would pay $700/month or more in the hopes of gaining equity.

., shifts in pricing, demand-supply changes).Analyze local or regional real estate data.Identify key economic indicators impacting the housing market.Stay ahead of demographic changes or migration trends.Do you have any go-to platforms, datasets, books, or even strategies that have been especially valuable?

It's always best to start local and then gain experience as you go through the motions as a new landlord. 

Also, the owner expressed concerns over the capital gains tax early in the discussion...so I am thinking the opportunity to do vendor financing will help me get a good purchase price and help the vendor with taxes.