I sparked interest in real estate investment just recently and I am very excited to learn the basic fundamentals and with due time begin to get my feet wet! 

I would argue that graduate school and undergrad are fundamentally different.  

Quote from @Daniel Rabinov: I’m new to REI currently looking to acquire multifamily properties in the North Miami Beach, Aventura, and Hollywood areas that meet the following criteria:Price per Unit: Maximum $250,000 (4 PLEX MAX 1M)Cap Rate: 7.5% or higher as-is not pro formaValue-Add Potential: Properties that offer the opportunity to renovate, improve, and increase rents or overall property value.My focus is on underperforming properties with strong fundamentals that are located in these markets.

I was not in the industry at the time, so I am not exactly sure who that 3rd party was, but I would say there is recourse if the appraisal is fundamentally flawed.

@Connor Thomas How are the neighborhood fundamentals?

Look for track record, conservative underwriting, a good team, good market fundamentals, and a solid exit plan that provides you with a 1031 escape hatch.

I also buy properties out-of-state.In terms of advice and such...my first advice would be to get really familiar with market fundamentals.

Did or are you learning RE basics relating the fundamentals to investing or are you trying to copy blow hards who post fish stories to attract business?

There's lot of resources out there that talk about numbers and market fundamentals and such (I have a lot of articles on here about all that if you have any specific questions...I can pop you over some info).What budget are you working with?

If you are investing in a smaller town with a regional college, just look at the same fundamentals as you would anywhere else.