He is a retired chemical engineer, but he has also built/contracted a couple of homes from scratch and has done a bunch of rehab jobs over the years. 

Yes, wholesaling the way it is being taught is the same thing as brokering a property, the end result is the same, justifications to the contrary are based on the vehicle used to get there, it doesn't change the results.In Missouri, the law states "facilitate a sale" and wholesaling as most try to do would be illegal without a license.

The trap under the master tub let go (I realize it was likely coincidental, but likely hastened by the heavy chemicals), the water then ran down 2 stories into the basement, taking out 2 "vintage" plaster ceilings, basement carpet, etc.  

That I know of no one can go without eating, without buying gas to go to work on a project, without paying insurance on a vehicle they will use and they cannot work without tools.All expenses and items needed have to be itemized and agreed to before you make a commitment to a project with any partner.

I've been thinking about enrolling in an education package on real  estate which brings me to the Catch 22 scenario-- not having enough cash/cash flow to invest in an education to start with-- but knowing that real estate might be a vehicle for me to start earning a second stream of income.

The cigarettes most smoke today are  worse for people because they have hundreds of chemicals in them that burn fast and very little actual tobacco.

I believe the garage to the home is large enough to fit the washer and dryer along with their vehicles, but I'm wondering what the standard protocol is in a situation like this.

We are now renting but I still see real estate as the vehicle to help me, my wife, and 5 children achieve financial success.I have little/no money, fair credit due to the foreclosure and a bankruptcy, and a lot of motivation to make this work.

Paint or chemical issues?   

Combine that with a better shot a appreciation and opportunities to sell for top dollar we have quite an investment vehicle.