I left my job 2 years ago to help me and sister build a online business.

Investors are already on board with the options weve got, just shopping for the best option.

I've noticed that properties with virtual tours tend to get more engagement online, and investors/agents who use them often say they help attract more serious buyers and renters. 

There are best practices on certain items that provides a guidelines.Commissions are always negotiable like any other services, you can shop around for the best value for money.All depends on the risks that you are willing to take.

I have a shop on my property that has a one bedroom apartment.House Hacking that for $800/mo.

He can spend the next few years-ish getting a finance degree through an online school while working part time, but he just got offered a full time position helping with sales for a local wholesale real estate company. 

Can't find much online....  

Just shop around online, look for properties similar to yours, add them to favorites and watch them to see how long it takes for them to rent.

And then you could take your time shopping for long term financing once you own the property.

I am not sure what companies are quoting you, but you should shop more.Make sure to have the location of where is showing the cracks so you can get a more accurate repair estimation.I have some contractors that I can recommend.