I am a novice investor who is looking for some solid tips and tricks on where to begin.

Or have other suggestions or tips for sorting property searches, managing goals, and renovation details.  

The higher you go in price, the ratios get too hard to make it work without leaving as much money in the deal as you would a standard down payment.

In the last year for Knox county specifically the median sale price is up 9.92% and the whole MLS is up 7.14% year over year.After beginning to recover in July and August, home sales throughout the East Tennessee region slowed up again in September which is somewhat expected as schools get back into swing.Mortgage rates remained below 7% for the entirety of September, for the fourth month in a row.

Quote from @Marcellis Mosby:I would bring the contractor with me on that viewing to get the full bid..

@Jessica HowellIn the operating agreement we typically put like $1,000 as initial contribution.

This enables them to act quickly when a promising property becomes available, reducing the risk of losing out to other buyers.

I think you really need to work with an agent based on what I am reading between the lines in your post. 

I could get an apartment but I think house hacking would be more worth while. any tips and insight as to get started quickly or should I rent an apartment for a year so I have more time to plan?

Welcome to the forums.