In the class, the instructor reads little from the book, and covered the real important points while giving more time to scenario examples.

Education is critical and in addition to reading books, blogs, etc., I have found listening to the podcast episodes to be invaluable. 

Read J.Scott's book on flipping houses. 

I started out only interested in wholesaling, but after listening to the podcasts, attending a real estate investor meet up and reading anything I can get my hands on (including @Brandon Turner's real estate investing with little or no money down book), I realize there are also many opportunities made possible by creative financing.

If you have no idea what you’re doing read some books before buying anything

When investing remotely you are taking on a little extra risk but you are also paying extra in fees for someone to do the extra small things that you would be able to do if you were local, i.e. walk through a property and analyze the area, review construction to make sure it is being done and to your standards.

I have a standard Dot & a PN.

@Brook RiemanThere isn't an official standard.

It looks like my best comp I have is 385k and was pretty standard looking - same type of flooring, kitchen wasn't high end refinish, bathrooms had basic tile.

Many great books on working with sellers on pre-forclosures.