I am completely self taught intentionally.

We need the cash to mostly just tie us over untill we sell the property, so 150,000 is on the upper end; 80,000 and above would probably be sufficient. 

Incurring debt before you have sufficient earnings to support that debt.

Another possibility could be a home equity line of credit (HELOC), if you have sufficient equity in another propertyGood luck with your project!

If you're not using Hard Money and the property won't qualify for conventional financing, then you'd probably need to locate private money or if you have friends with IRAs, they can be self-directed to invest in real estate.

I've been informed that completing the course alone may not be sufficient to pass the exam, so I’m seeking advice on how to prepare effectively once I complete it.Currently, my only other resources include a YouTube video, five practice exams, and a textbook.If you have any additional suggestions—whether online or in-person, paid or free—that could help me effectively prepare for the exam, I would greatly appreciate them.

Clean-up costs- make sure you have sufficient coverage.D. 

To answer your question, no I do not use a PM, I've been self managing for a few years.

If you do not have job or another sufficient source of stable, reliable income, then you'll need a coborrower with good income to be joint on the loan with you to bring the income component to the table.

The best way to connect and learn is to be in rooms where it's going down.In terms of captial your best bet is to focus on a primary income that cash flow sufficiently, saving as much as you can and doing something real estate related so you can get familiar with the industry.