I've not rented one on an ongoing basis, but have rented them for specific projects.  

The agent I'm using right now said the fees are pricey and staying current is an ongoing financial obligation.  

In the lease, I would cover maintenance accomplished by the tenant so long as the tenant has an ongoing business concern, that will cover you as to tax requirements being responsible for costs as the owner.

One who does have proof of funds for transactional funding.And if your "connection guy" is likely to be able to find real deals for YOU on an ongoing basis, I suggest you foster that relationship very carefully.  

They may look at expenses but that gives them an idea of future expenses but is not a qualifying matter unless expenses are excessive and it matters what they are, if they are likely to be ongoing or if they were incidental in that year.

I ran into that when i bought my house in Houston in 2003.

My partner and I ran one in eagle rock, at least up the the shut down, and they are great resources for learning and expanding your networks.

The list goes on and on, all sorts of ongoing strange problems in both properties. 

I plan on going to college and getting an associate in either finance or some skill that will be useful for real estate.

Are you interested in short or long term rental (guests or someone who you live with on an ongoing basis)?