My reasoning is because i realized that i want to do something, alongside my design degree, that involves building complexes (mostly commercial buildings) but im not sure with degree would be the best to do this.

As we went through the process of purchasing the home, we realized we had the opportunity to turn it into a buy and hold rental.

However, and I'm sure you realize this, the reasons people get into other facets of real estate such as flipping and notes are for the other benefits those provide over rentals. 

I didn't realize other lenders were making people pay for upfront courses etc..

You do realize that they have to not only complete a 144 hour set of classes and pass a state exam, they have to pay for their marketing, office expenses, vehicle expenses and often work their way up in a brokerage. 

And if you later on realize it's too risky for you, then a simpler house hack would probably be better to get you started in REI with less risk than a flip. 

You have to bid aggressive and also realize a lot of the rehabbers are doing it themselves and after hours, not hiring expensive GC.   

Whereas if you didn't have the policy and they realized that you'd probably just default they would recommend not suing because no one would get paid. 

I came to the realization that joint venture partnerships are an awesome strategy.  

Realize that would be based on your efforts, versus the current sellers, but you would be willing to pay above market if you plan to make a lot more by doing the value add.I prefer to pay below market, but if the zoning is hard to find, if the potential value add is great, or the finance deal is wonderful, then I would pay above market.