I've recently (2 weeks ago) made the commitment to start REI.

It is not hard, but it takes discipline and commitment.  

If you do not declare you are using borrowed funds for your down payment you will be committing mortgage fraud (there is a form you will sign during the mortgage qualification process where you attest no part of your downpayment is borrowed.That said ... using your student loan to purchase a property would be far wiser than using it to purchase a car .... which many of us did back in the 70s & 80s.

In such a situation, if you aren't asking questions and reading the fine print, you could unwittingly commit mortgage fraud.My direct answer to your question is, yes, I have financed dozens of short-term fix/flips through what you refer to as "traditional" banks.  

Does the article which states the address in which the crime had been committed in effect the property value?

Consider if they have a lease or no lease this might also make a difference.I would have them make requests for repairs and commitments to pay in writing, plan to get current on rent,  limit requests to safety issues now.

Hello everyone, I'm looking to get into real estate investing not sure which way to go, and part of me is scared to fully commit to it, but I know it's something I can see myself doing and being great at it.

You made the commitment to learning, now just go out and get it!

If you have a private lender (HML or private) that can lend on the project, sure, get a letter from them indicating their commitment to the project.  

The buyer will be more committed if they sign the contract first.