As a newbie to this process and my basic need to understand it all I am trying to do my due diligence prior to jumping in.

Do your due diligence now while you have the time, find somebody local in boots on the ground, and make good use of your resources in time available.

I'm a little surprised that @Chase McArthur thinks it's only suitable "to help you decide whether or not to submit your LOI for further diligence". 

I would still do due diligence such as whole property inspection, lead inspection (depending on when the property was built), appraisal, etc. 

Is there anything specific I should focus on during the due diligence process, particularly regarding title and document inspection, compared to a traditional sale?

Working with Real Estate ProfessionalsLocal Real Estate Agent: Choose an agent experienced in student housing.Property Management Services: Consider hiring a property manager if you’re not local.Inspection and Appraisal: Conduct thorough due diligence to avoid costly repairs.6.

Lastly, I make sure that we are double checking and doing proper due diligence - I walk the property and do an in-depth investor walkthrough for them, we do a home inspection, we have a licensed GC to walk and write up an itemized bid, etc.And to answer the last part of your question, one of the hottest markets is Columbus Ohio!

What I learned from the rental was the due diligence importance of finding the right tenants.

I want to be able to learn how to do my due diligence on these properties. 

I suspect but dont know .. this has all the red flags of lenders to watch out for as in pump and dump due diligence schemes..