I worked a part-time job during college and struggled to manage no more than 15 credit hours.

While large businesses are creating record profits (see the vast majority of publicly listed companies if this isn't obvious), the vast majority of small/mom-and-pop businesses are struggling. 

We are brand new to RE investing and have struggled in the last year trying to get things going.

People are flocking to houses to lock in low interest rates before they go up.So a couple things: I know the old adage is "buy real estate & wait", but I am struggling with that vs. don't rush into something.

I have a lot of good ideas on this one but I would entertain your thoughts/comments. (2) The second one I am struggling with...How can a new investor can read a home inspection report and know when a comment/issue is a big deal, requiring serious skills/capital to fix versus just a DIY and a few hundred dollars to correct.Any experienced investors have any tips when they felt overwhelmed reading a home inspection report as a newbie?

Robin, I think you are going through the struggle of many investors.

There will be good, hard working tenants, but even these people may struggle to pay bills and upkeep the property.

Still learning and one of thr things I'm struggling to understand is this particular step along with a cash out refinance

We lived in the home for 4 years. during that time we were able to save enough for a down payment on a house to fit our growing family, while staying in our beloved neighborhood.The question I am struggling with is, should I sell and cash out of this investment while I can still claim the primary residence tax exception?

That said, I am struggling with a financing method that has me coming out of pocket for less than ~$52k.