I see that painting with to broad a brush.

I've taken the REFM course and it wasnt great for development because it was broad.

This is such a broad question that has no pinpoint answer.

this has been a massive change in the last 10 years.Also, consider whether you seek a CAREER in real estate investments, or just a profitable sideline with your career in another field.Passive vs active investing is not an absolute....it more of a spectrum with available opportunities all along the spectrum; some more toward the passive side, some more active.So, taking note investing, the most passive way to invest is to invest in a private note fund, or REIT.  

But I'll provide you with a broad overview. 

Real estate has broad aspects to it, so maybe you can work for a property management company or local developer.    

A Garfield Heights double is in the middle of the spectrum. 

Many agents try to attract a broad audience, and that makes sense when trying to nail down the first couple of deals.

Very broad question.

Most of the time though, 'off market' deals just mean they don't market it broadly and keep it to 10-20 people or so.