When I get to know you I can learn your finical and investment goals, what works for you, what you would be interested in taking on and so forth.

Don't let that mindset creep in - take your time and figure out your goals.

I need some help figuring out my options in taking down this deal. 

You are approaching this right in taking into account that there will most likely be damages. 

are you interested in taking on a partner @Patrick Ng?

I would initially ask basic questions, you can ask as many or as few as you like, but take the cue from the person you are speaking with, some may want to spill information, and others may think you are invasive if you ask too much, seller intake is a balance of art and science. 

Or perhaps a new Water Sewage Plant or homeless intake shelter which can negatively impact the area?

Anyone interested in taking out a HELOC on a property, I highly recommend TD.

Obviously nothing is more valuable than actually going through the process of finding and purchasing a property -- but I was curious as to whether others saw any value in taking some courses or getting a license.Thoughts...?

Combining forces with another investor to use more capital in taking down a higher quality asset is a better approach in my opinion.