My understanding is many homes cost more to move than they are worth. 

By my understanding, they pay a fee to apartments for the background check and application, right?

Hi Ayyoub Research is the key, Conduct thorough market research to understand why the competing property is listed at a lower rent, Consider any improvements or upgrades that could enhance the appeal of your property to potential tenants, If you're unable to match the lower rental rate of the competing property, consider other incentives to attract tenants, such as offering a shorter lease term, including utilities in the rent, or providing additional amenities.Hope it helps.

Would attending a real estate school or taking specific courses be beneficial in understanding the fundamentals?

You need to find not only the right bank but also the right loan officer who understands the guidelines. 

I understand your excitement about taking the plunge into real estate investing.  

I understand your excitement about taking the plunge into real estate investing.

It will give you a better understanding of what is being bid and therefore know if you are getting a good price.  

Otherwise it's going to be super overwhelming trying to understand a half dozen markets.Once you determine what city you'll be investing in you can start drilling down.

The locks are new, standard key entry from the outside for the backdoor.