Sounds like you already know this, but I see it with new investors here in Colorado, coming in all hot, excited to retire by age 40 and then are crippled by that first step. 

As I continue my W-2, I'm continually reminded of my goal to be financially free by age 45 (just over 7 years from now) and I'm more motivated to reach that goal so I can go into RE investing full time.

Second, general maintenance and repair costs depend on the condition of the house, the age of the house, and who is hired to do the work.  

I'm a college student going into my sophomore year and I just reached the age requirement to take courses where I live!

Let them know your are open to using different Insurance companies on the properties (often one company will be best on one location but not others due to age, fire protection, etc.)

Your best bet might be to go to local investor workshops and then find someone very successful where they might take the time to help you out IF they feel you are truly motivated to listen and take action with direction as given.At some point as people age they do want to pay it forward helping others but not those with low motivation or want the easy answers in life with massive results.  

After discussing with her, due to the age of the house she is wanting to get out from under it as there are some cosmetic issues about the house that would just take the time and funds to do (like replacing some of the laminate wood slats, harder to find an exact match than anything).

It does age yellow a little, but not really detrimental, but it can more easily be refinished than a porcelain tub.If you want a window, you can put a small cantilever one at the top out of the spray area.

Due to age of owner's (70+), money to be made selling ( rapid increase in equity), change in the market area (over crowded beaches/Pigeon Forge strip) and life changes (divorces/death) the owner occupied/2nd home owners sold. 

@Brooklyn HuntIt's fantastic that you're exploring opportunities in both the investment industry and real estate at such a young age.