With your monthly expenses did you factor vacancy in it (I guess not since you are renting it to a family memeber),  repairs that will be needed at some point,  on going maintenance needed,  etc.  

On a positive note, neither will they be inclined to release your ex-husband from his obligation, especially if you cannot demonstrate an ability to carry the debt w/o his participation.The wording of your separation agreement w/r to this debt should be helpful in establishing his on-going obligation and Northwood may be inclined to collect payment directly from him alleviating you from chasing him for payment and he from withholding payment for tactical purposes.

I have always figured an amount for future capex, vacancy and ongoing maintenance and repair which is small stuff(not capex sized things).

But that option involves increased start up and ongoing costs, both in terms of time and money.  

We have had confirmations of on going rehab with pictures to prove it during and we will receive more at the end of rehab.

I'm planning on going next week. 

Wholesaling takes a lot of ongoing effort.   

Meaning not all franchises are equal in their support of franchisees.Look online for owner groups, and see what other owners have to say about the franchisor.Also, there may be opportunities to buy an ongoing franchise vs building a new one.Good Luck!

You’ll need an on going income or have your parents co-sign the loan.

You can learn from books, attending local real estate investor meet up, attending webinars, etc, But your most permanent learning experiences will come from actually doing deals and dealing with them on an ongoing basis.