There are almost always ways to make a deal you just have to see the value, be able to show the value to the other person, and come up with a creative solution to make it happen!

I afraid that rehabbing the garage would be useless (I still didn't bring any contractor to see the property) and was thinking about replacing with a new garage...I am about to hold and rent the property, don't want to flip it.What do you say?

It's my opinion, and only my opinion, but it looks like someone would like to see the law of unintended consequences take charge. 

Seems to be better than the 1% rule which is awesome but I did not see the monthly mortgage payment?

See the Tools tab on BP, there are calculators there:  https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investment-calculator

I was wanting to attend another seminar in my area (Orlando), but I dont see the events anymore.

I see the value in it in certain scenarios..., but you have to be careful because I find most of the people selling coaching, classes, etc are amateurs.

I see the terms show up occasionally and it looks like it could be a good opportunity but it's difficult to find information on how to proceed.

When you start looking, you will see the differences. in terms of appreciation, I think Hudson county has great potential, but keep in mind most areas has appreciated a lot since 2012.

There seem to be more and more of us everyday so it is certainly worth calling around to see the options out there.