There are 2 new sections, with regard to solicitation, that have formed from the Jobs Act which may be worth while for you to research...Regulation D / rule 506 exemptions: 506(b) and 506(c).SEC guidance has established the principle that approaching specific individuals about a securities offering is not a general solicitation if, before the individuals are approached, they have a substantive relationship with the person approaching them.

@Christopher Smith Lot of worthwhile inputs posted already from some truly experienced RE investors here.

There is NO worthwhile cash flow here compared to almost any other place in the country, so everyone is gambling strictly on appreciation?    

Most areas you will find a 5-10 yr payback on the solar array so as long is this is a long term hold and you have the capital, it is worthwhile looking into.

Is it even worthwhile to build an accessory apartment? 

If you are "self-employed", it is worthwhile looking at a SEP IRA or Solo 401(k). 

(Though that depends significantly on when your friend needs how much cash, and when they’ll pay it back - if they need cash occasionally, and will pay it back occasionally, then a HELOC may be worthwhile, despite what might be higher interest rates). 

I was just wondering what is all covered in the training and if they're worthwhile.

It might be worthwhile to focus on income if you find yourself needing a higher lending limit.

But it might be worthwhile to get in contact with an appraiser and ask how they would value it.