In other words, FB marketplace cast offs won't be the best fit unless you're lucky enough to come by some Pottery Barn or West Elm or brands like that. 

The market can be tricky with its block-by-block nature, but it's been a great fit for all-cash purchases like yours.I also have a team on the ground in Detroit that helps manage everything from finding deals to overseeing rehabs, which is crucial for out-of-state investors.

Next, I'd start looking for a market that will fit your needs & do some research on the market's economic divers / population rates & other things pushing the market to grow & take a trip out there to get a lay of the land. 

I just don't want to commit and sign up for his classes before I try it and see it as a good fit for me.   

Landlording is NOT a one size fits all business.

There are some excellent posters on BP but occasionally some go beyond what I think is appropriate for lay persons.

Jay is right, this is generally going to be a fit for the family members who love you the most.

I know Brad does an interview with each of his students to see if they are a good fit for the program.

I don't know any excellent neighborhood in America that genuinely likes renters in their neighborhoods.

Fit buy box of A or B rated school that will appreciate over time.