It's great that you're getting started with your education and looking to take action.

Someone who started in auto sales and has made most of his money through book sales, education, and selling the hype.... 

From what information I have gathered, over my learning period, is that the south side slopes can be hard to find the right property.

I've listened to about 15 bigger pockets podcasts, read the ultimate beginners guide, read "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" and "Money Master the Game" by Tony Robbins as a start to my REI/financial education.

Being bedridden has given me much of that time educating myself, 7 days per week.The things you have been taught in grade school and told by your family is not true anymore. 

City has a code that if utilities are not on for a 12 month period they will never be able to be turned back on. in other words no occupancy for 12 months means it is no longer eligible to be occupied again.

The second is that education is free for the taking. 

The answer to this question would be helpful because it would allow me to determine the extent to which any losses that I may incur—by way of unequal returns on the money invested for renovations—can be recouped via the rental cash flow over a period of time.

However, if you are looking at short term flips, the chances of you getting screwed on stock market skyrocketing during that short period is slim so it may workout. 

Please advise the books about real estate investment and management.
Thank you.