So my question might seem simple or even stupid to some people, nut we all have to start at some point. 

And if so is it free and clear?

We don't get many natural disasters of this caliber so I'm not sure what to expect for the future.

Over the past year or so I've read books, blogs, and watched more YouTube videos than I can remember.

I'm particularly interested in establishing a holding company that is a Multi-Member LLC with charging order protection so looking to place it in Delaware.

So sorry to hear about your losses.

If you're a contractor a fixer might be better, if you're a marketer maybe an STR and so on.  

The reason people seek for distress properties, so that they can acquire the property at a low price and renovate the house aka "value add" so that they can increase the property's value and create sweat equity, then pulling the money out or cash out we call out so that investors can liquidate their money and reinvest on the next project @Albert Bui @Carlos Valencia

So, now I’m looking for advice on where a new investor should begin in this community—whether it’s podcasts, books, or even specific forums within BiggerPockets.I am really eager to learn, grow, make and learn from my mistakes, take calculated risks and in short dive into this whole heartedly. 

Keep in mind @Mario Morales that they take premiums, invest them so there is a profit component on invested returns, and hence amplifies how far the $ can spread on payouts. less than stellar returns and expanding claims, yes, rising premiums is a certainty.