Currently wrapping up courses to take real estate salesperson exam (california) was hoping if anyone could guide me to some things that helped them pass the exam as well as in the business in general? 

There also isn't a clear guide if you need to evict the tenant during their lease how and if you have to reimburse NYC's HRA. 

Start today, before the problems occur, and your life will be so much easier.Do yourself a favor: buy "Every Landlord's Legal Guide" by NOLO.

@Jack PinardSend me a PM and I can send you my resource guide - it doesn’t format correctly when I put it in here

That conversation might guide how you approach the township about permits, but I would agree with Nathan that you'll likely pay some fines in addition to the typically paperwork. 

Start with BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide (free).

We've replaced 5 water heaters in a single year, had plumbing stoppages that resulted in 3-5k worth of work, and even had to replace 1/3 of the pier and beam foundation in the house we're currently living in.

As a realtor, I've guided many clients through their first property investments and I'm always eager to learn more from experienced investors.

You need to connect with those doing deals there and allow them to guide you All the best  

Read Beginner’s Guide to help you get started: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingBest of luck here at BP Nation.