I found the properties myself, but since I'm a newbie I'd like to utilize her expertise in the buying process.

I own 8 properties here (7 income properties) and you can't grow to that size without standout expertise.  

I know the saying “More Risk = More Reward”, my question to the BP community that have dealt with both Class A properties and Class C/C- properties: Is there really that big of a difference in managing the tenants, and property?

I am passionate about learning everything I can around real estate investing and starting my future in this very rewarding industry.

Even if the market tanks, which I don't profess to have the expertise to predict, I think you should be fine so long as the rental income you collect can help you weather the storm through the recovery period.

Your area of expertise from the investor perspective must be critical for beginning investors.  

Risk equals reward, hopefully.

With greater risk comes greater reward, and I see a lot of risk here (Roof and HVAC needing replacing) and not a lot of reward.

Just one of the risks of investing in real estate I suppose but hey, if their was no risk involved then everyone would be doing it and the reward would be much less. 

Can find a partner on here, your unit (tread lightly there) or family and pool your resources (money, time or expertise) together.