These programs often assert to guide you step-by-step through the process, provide assistance with funding, and connect you with contractors.

I think if I can achieve that I will rapidly learn, then be able to evaluate what steps might be best for the next stages.

Next step is typically to file the action at the courthouse, like you said. 

@Caleb Rehg  I would advise your first step is to search this site for college student rentals and student rentals and read all you can. 

Your first step is definitely learning about the markets you are interested in and figuring our what your desired end state / goal is that you are hoping to achieve through real estate.

Quote from @Shayan Sameer: Quote from @Zachary Deal: As several folks have mentioned leveraging equity in current property you owned is a great tool but still comes with the some of risks as you had before using hard money debt as there is never a guarantee your new project will be a success (there will always be risks with real estate investing).Leveraging your investment property would probably be the first step I would take. 

Our experience is that many lenders/servicer customer representatives may not know the protections that exist for those that want to put asset protection steps in place. 

Do you have a step by step list when looking at the potential house?

Offering discounts and opening up your calendar are great steps.

. - 2 story house with very small rooms and and 2 steps down, imminently as you enter the front door.- Gated community and in a reasonable HOA. - The home is 2 payments behind and already got a letter from the lender about future foreclose.