At first, I was looking on the counties online public record but unfortunately I will have to search for individual addresses and after doing some more research I came across that is possible to get a listing through the MRIS.

Id suggest instead of molding yourself to what others want, define what your ideal client is then seek out those clients.

I have seen online banks that yield 1.5% APY.

Ideally, would not like to inject any additional capital into the deal.

When I don't know something I just look it up from reputable sources online and also quite a few of my college roommates work in finance and can get answers on things like Libor nuances for example.

Take the course (in person or online if its offered) and then practice the end of chapter tests until your eyes bleed. 

And that would lead to my best suggestion for cutting costs: Let someone else (a mail house or an online outfit like Click2Mail) perform the labor tasks for you.

My goal is to make my first investment, ideally in a 3/4-plex in the Hudson County area, although I am also open to a Duplex as well if the deal is right, and I'm looking to be able to connect with like minded individuals in the following areas:- Agent - someone who wouldn't mind working with a new investor, and has experience/knowledge working in the Hudson County area (which is where I currently reside - I'm in West New York to be specific)- Bank - I would love to be able to work with a community bank/credit union, as I prefer to be able to give back to the small businesses within the community rather than fill the pockets of the big banks.  

Any recommendations of courses to do so would be a great help also, I found a few online.

The info is all available for you online.