You should already have your 6 month reserves set aside to be safe anyway, so I don't see having rent due in the middle of the month as really changing anything.

In reality, most in a L/O don't get to 10%.There are different aspects of L/Os, lending, interests conveyed, tax issues, installment sales where the SAFE Act is applicable in some cases and a range of other issues.

I've wasted precious money on RE seminars, boot camps, online courses etc.

so the SAFE Act may apply.

Many parts of North Newark (Upper Roseville), Forest Hill, Ivy Hill, (some of) weequahic, Ironbound etc. are relatively safe.

Keep 25 % into safe investment like the CD itself, and another 25 or 50% into real estate flips, and may be another 25 % into a business like 7-11 store or subway.

Do you have any teachings online, literature or training sites?

This is the best place online to learn about real estate.

I looked online at neighborhoodscout.com and was able to find the residential vacancy rate but couldn't find anything on commercial properties in the area.

Make sure you buy right and be super conservative on your numbers to be safe.