While I don't object to spending money to do one's due diligence, I don't know if $500 is called for when you can get very high quality syndication groups/meetups/information for free.

Forget the course and put that money on a quality vacation short-term rental.  

Cost per lead (CPL) is crucial—it shows how much you're paying to get a potential seller or buyer’s info, and you want this as low as possible without sacrificing quality.

https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/12/topics/1122318-quality-turnkey-companies?

From there, adding discipline will get you to where you want.Instead what you're doing is advertising you have money, no knowledge and are going to have the average BP RE agent(bottom of the barrel quality) come here to promote their services with no regard. 

Don't invest in a market if you can't find a quality PM!

I know this is an unpopular opinion around here that you won’t see on the front page of the daily BiggerPockets newsletter, but it’s the truth For the record, I still believe a quality STR purchase offers a great ROI over the long term.  

The combination of families looking for more space, good schools, and a quieter lifestyle has been a big driver of demand.For my investments, I’ve noticed:High tenant quality: Families or professionals relocating to suburbs like Naperville and Wheaton tend to stay longer, which helps with stability.Increased competition: It’s definitely tougher to find good deals, especially in top-tier school districts.

Sounds to me like you’re commenting on how the quality of the course is without having seen it.  

@Travis Boyd The quality of the neighborhood will affect the cap rate to be used.