Before you even consider buying in Fitchburg, educate yourself. 

Depends on your situation.6) Education is key - Read and learn as much as you can.

So i thought to myself if I put that degree on hold what is a smart way I can pay for continuing my education without being in thousands of dollars in debt.

This is the best REI education on the planet.

Welcome to the site @Tobias Graham Bigger Pockets is the most innovative and educational site available to learn about real estate investing.All the best to you!

@Benjamin Blackburn  I think the best lender to work with is one who is willing to educate you, obviously knows what they're talking about, and is very up front about everything.  

I would highly encourage you to find a RE Lawyer that will look at your current lease with the current tenant along with their "demands" as realistically, paying a RE lawyer a couple of hundred bucks is going be a worthwhile education, plus, may save you thousands on that weird agreement the tenant is "demanding" you sign.Being a landlord is very tough and I believe it to require STRONG LEADERSHIP skills.  

She continues to not pay, then you can reasonably evict, or deduct from security deposit (potentially) at the end of the lease.If she only has a few months left, call it education expense and get her out when the time comes. 

Good educational and networking opportunity. 

I am really trying to educate myself before I get into it a bad deal.