Hello @Cody Rigby, I am a local realtor and investor.

Would attending a real estate school or taking specific courses be beneficial in understanding the fundamentals?

Consult a local insurance agent, they will help you to get a free quote

@John Faulk Jr if the goal is to ultimately purchase a property in a market outside of your own, I would strongly suggest working with a local realtor in whatever market(s) you are considering.

Make sure to connect with local lenders and brokers, as it's beneficial for achieving your real estate goals.

We work with a lot of out-of-state investors who are having a hard time finding deals in their local market. 

Usually a smaller, local, community lender will be the best route. 

I ended up hiring a local attorney.

Portfolio loan through a local bank that we have a good relationship with.

I am getting ready to execute on a direct mail marketing campaign for off market properties to zip codes in the greater Milwaukee, WI market after reading, listening, and watching Jerry Norton, Pace Morby, and many other local investors.