I have filed for eviction on one tenant that I have placed in my career, and I was able to negotiate him out long before the court date. 99% of the time, eviction should not be a driver for whether you invest. 

Are you local here in OKC?

Just be sure to check local laws on utility billing in Michigan before implementing anything, because this may not even be an option.

Start by attending real estate meetups, BiggerPockets forums, and local investor groups to connect with potential partners.

He is our local expert. 

You can get all the networking you desire locally (REIA's) and at your local Church (Men's groups).Quite a business model though...if they have 1000+ members paying $700/mo...well, you do the math!

I would recommend attending some local meet up groups or REIA meetings.

Our rehab cost estimation comes from researching the area and talking with local investors that have similar properties. 

Get to some local meetings.

I would suggest finishing school, working as a part time agent while you are at school, saving commissions for investing, and working with a team that focuses on investing as opposed to residential sales.There are also local meet ups every month.