Therefore I suggest bookmarking a fe links to access resources like checking out these calculators , the file place, REI resources, and looking into getting some or all of the really awesome and necessary books offered here on Bigger Pockets.

There are a lot of comments about using OPM (usually when someone who doesn't have access to their own money), and that by using OPM there is less risk to you.

With this, there is potential value in the areas that would have train stops.

An attorney attempted to arrange a loan modification, and advised my mother to stop paying the mortgage payments.One thing I did understand correctly was the gentrifying trend of the neighborhood, and the house has since appreciated in value to around 890K(adjusted comps analysis).  

A vacant multifamily is hard to finance, you may have to access hard money or raise capital from investors.  

Just received an email from them notifying me that they are going to shut of the service in 10 days and they might need me to "provide the access to the property, if my tenants wouldn't cooperate."

You'll see the numbers clearly, what it will cost, and what benefit is projected, and make an educated decision yourself (with the counsel of your CPA) and stop giving money to the IRS, that they allow you to keep!

I have access to on and off market properties.

One thing I heard you say, is that you don’t need to be an agent to access the MLS, but I’m not sure I heard exactly how it is that non agents can access it.

Oakland County has a nice online database you can access at Oakgov.com.