I did not pay for the course or get any deeper because I figured 1) High return = high risk, and I am at a point where I can't afford to lose that kind of money; and 2) I didn’t see a value in a course- why not network with local investors who need down payment, and work it out directly on a deal that I could more easily underwrite?

Operating an Airbnb business requires being up to date on current local ordinances and restrictions.

I would talk to a local bank or mortgage broker to see what you can get for a loan first and then go from there. 

Your best bet is to find and contact all of the top local wholesalers and go to work for one of them and see what they do right and wrong and see if it's even a business you like.

I'm looking forward to connecting with other local owners in these markets.

I know where I am going to hang my license as long as my application is accepted and am excited to become a local real estate agent.

I’m currently diving into the world of rental property investing and exploring opportunities in my local market.

Go to local meetups, search these forums for people that have mentioned that they do private lending and attend other RE events.

@Landon Sheveland  don't think your renovations will overcome a bad location. 

In my area of NC, our local MLS's are writing rules to prevent wholesalers from being able to list and sell a property they have under contract.