When I try, I'm faced with choices I don't really understand with explanations that use vocabulary I don't understand.  

Both loans were denied on this Vocabulary Trustco denial- “ subject property appears to be a rental.”

The secret is to think like a REI...and not a homeowner.The numbers, and effect of the exact same numbers, are 180 degree different...in ALL cases.The numbers don't lie, so never argue with them (i.e. rationalization = most expensive word in a REI vocabulary...so never use it)...you will lose every time...and most likely never realize it, or how much.

As far as email as long as your vocabulary isn't sheeet you should be fine. 

I think the main thing is just knowing the vocabulary so you can pick the questions apart and really understand what they're asking on those little trick questions they tend to ask.

you can start in the library for the price of a library card. and you can buy most of the guru's written materials and tapes and CDs on E bay type of site for next to nothing from those who took the courses. etc.much of the information is the same for the last 100 years.. this is not a complicated business or system.you could also take a pre licensing course that will teach you laws ( which is important) and vocabulary ( which is important) and those are modest in price.. 

Bottom line a real estate license and start with a brokerage on a team will teach you what you need to know faster than trying to learn this when you don't even know the vocabulary.  

Good luck.this is good advice i am not sure what all the aversion to at least taking pre license training.. its dirt cheap. you learn the vocabulary and if you sit for the test and then work for the right broker .. your in the game  daily .. not out on an island looking to see how you get across the sea.. 

I need it every day and continue doing it until I can't do it anymore.. there is no retirement in my vocabulary.

First, start with eliminating the word 'contract' from your vocabulary.