I was wondering if anyone had suggestions for me to take a look at such as videos to watch, articles to read, and things of that nature.

They have more skin in the game then you do.Make sure you get clear title.

If it’s one thing you will learn from the podcasts and forums is that there’s more than one way to skin a cat.

I also ensure there's enough skin in the game that the Buyer won't walk away without feeling some pain.

Is this just the nature of obtaining an investment loan or am I going about something the wrong way?

The insurance company will try to determine what caused the crack ... if it was natural soil expansion/compaction, it's unlikely they'll cover it ... if it was, say, from a plumbing leak, there's a much better chance they'll pay for, at least, a part of it; however, that would then pose a different issue for you - I've seen new policies become very expensive when there are prior water damage claims on the property. 

They have more skin in the game then you do.Make sure you get clear title.

All HMLs will require your skin in the game to the tune of 20% - 30%, and it's on investment properties only.

People love their animals, so instead of treating their furbies as liabilities, I would say "pets welcome on a case by case basis with deposit" or something of that nature.

If you don't have it, then the next natural step is to partner with someone who has.