We have access to all public records in Illinois and Indiana and thus do not have to pay fees for tools and apps other investors use for access to those records. 

Quote from @David Pulido: Talk to a few lenders to confirm, but I'm pretty sure lenders are forbidden from paying or accepting referral fees.

When considering investment properties in South Carolina, it's crucial to pay close attention to property taxes.

I currently have about 9K saved up and was wondering, is it better to pay down 9K of my 70K debt now?

With that in mind, here would be my priority order based on what you have written:1) Have all the houses inspected so you know about major deferred maintenance. 2) Pay for an appraisal on all homes so you know if you are getting a good deal. 

Anything you find in these areas you're going to have to pay a very high premium for because all investors want to buy in this location.

If the rent of that 2 bedroom was $1600, that person would expect to pay $800 rent and maybe another $250 for electric, water, heat, internet for a total of $1050 all included.

If you were paying attention in class and passed the in-class test, the regular exam should be a breeze.

Then Ground-Up Construction Loans are probably a third category, all under the "Private Lender" bucket

It's a PR gimmick and aimed at target audience who would pay to hear what they like.