I might be able to fill in the gaps so you can start looking for the ideal project. 

. $1,400 for a 3bed/2bath gets bumped to $1,750, then I add in the cost of utilities, TV, internet, and landscaping. 

Many will cover water, pest control, repairs to the roof and exterior walls, fences, landscaping, maintenance, security, insurance, some cover cable and internet.

Ideally I would like to find a SFH (3/2 minimum) that I can turn into a rental in 1-2 years.

Ideally, you find a 3- or 4-family property.

Ideally, you build up a strong portfolio that will support your family in retirement.

Now that i really know im not going to be able to join, I just need to take advantage of all the free information that i can find on youtube and the internet.

You can also get pretty close with overhead measurements from Google Earth, although math is required, and don't forget to subtract the garage, but ideally if you get to the point of making an offer you will have seen the house and/ or the owner will tell you how big it is.

Ideally, I would like to find a small multi-family to house hack, or even potentially a large single-family home. 

The only thing that has changed is the advent of the internet making it more widely available and the marketing word Turnkey got introduced.