I am curious how they plan to make money after spending $5k to furnish and another $200 for utilities monthly, ON TOP of the $1800 rent.

So, with no foundational knowledge of real property, and no capital, his only alternatives are (1) “bluff” the homeowner into thinking he has the money and intent to close the purchase himself and or convince the homeowner he has an extensive list of cash ready interested buyers (“partners”) with whom he’s done dozens of prior deals or (2) pack up shop, write off the money invested in mentoring to a worthless investment, and decide IF real estate is right for home.  

If the home is currently a rental you will only save a prorated percentage of the gains.

You're likely looking at a hard money lender or private lender, but they do exist and some will finance not only the initial purchase but the rehab as well.

Their longer term goal is to use the money you give them to put you out of business.  

Politicians will continue to pander to tenants and assault landlord rights until landlords organize and spend money to push landlord agendas.

They need to sign something acknowledging that they are giving up their rights to inhabit the house in exchange for money.

I’d like to have about 25k for a down payment and I currently have 15k saved up already in a high yield savings account.

.- If someone sues the tenant for monetary damages for some other reason, and they haven't done anything illegal, their Renters Insurance puts Insurance carrier money on the table and the landlord doesn't need to be involved.- The tenant's personal property is protected (less the deductible) while they are away from home, like in their car, or when traveling.

If you day-trade or read the tea leaves for hot stock tips or play the ponies or simply put your money in index funds, do any of these things occupy your interest like real estate?