I always suggest Jeff Laird, Fidelity National Title.   

Any suggestions on how this should be worded?

If it's an SFR you could technically get a HomeStyle reno loan on it, but that would be a lot of closing costs and other nonsense just for an extra $5k.I'd suggest credit cards or other unsecured borrowed funds -- get it done quick and sell it quick to pay it off. 2nd best might be some sort of equity deal with another investor who has $5k to invest. 

I suggest that you first get your Texas Real Estate License.. 

I suggest put your emotions and your plan aside for a minute, be clinical and counter the offer with your preferred price. 

What book suggestions do you have on home improvement/DIY rehab?

This is why I suggested holding index funds instead. 

I've been doing a lot of research here on the topic - reading suggested books, researching potential classes to take, listening to BP podcasts, etc. 

I would suggest you read and understand the SCRA (service members civil relief act). 

I have done some small land development so not sure that I could help but I can make a good suggestion.