What are some things that beginners are routinely failing at? 

Preventative maintenance is smart, but in my experience as an investor and property manager, the AC filters are really the only routine maintenance item you need "eyes on" for more than annually. 

They'll be quick to "flush out wholesalers" by requiring a good amount of deposit, a pre-approval letter in your name, and a strict set of quick deadlines (usually all contingencies would be released within 21 days).

- Property management requirements are little more strict but even passing the test, I'm still unclear on what that restriction is outside of not discriminating when advertising.Pros:- It sounds like I already need to have the knowledge of a real estate agent in order to evaluate properties, might as well have the option to sell and make extra money.

However i have a few investor friends who i know purchase strictly foreclosures or pre-foreclosure homes.

@Annie Weeks I am not very familiar with short term rental units, but I will mention that Minneapolis proper has some strict rules regarding rental units and tenant land-lord relationships.

My biggest hold up at the moment is that I don’t know whether or not to get my real estate license or just strictly focus on investing?

I have a pretty strict check list I run through before I even meet them in person.

I routinely find distressed, on-market properties on my local MLS here in Springfield Missouri. You can find great deals just by making enough low offers.

At the end of the day, you do what is best for you I guess.i follow a strict scorched-earth policy.