@Jared ViernesWelcome Jared - went to WSU myself - take all the RE classes they offer while you're there - many of them will/should count as part of your core classes needed for your MBA - think a couple should be cross listed as Finance classes too.  

I am reading more and more that I need to be willing to do it.I am currently building a core network of folks (real estate attorney, realtor, accountant, lender), and am looking to expand into people in the industry with real world experience.

I see it as the real measure if what I'm doing has value, jealousy and these type of core emotions are in all humans.  

Hey Hey BPerz - I am in the process of creating my "Core 4" in three separate markets.

This is the core reason my father was able to retire at the crisp age of 45 and I look up to him everyday for that.

But I’ll address what I believe the core of your question is.

Try to look for deals, play the long game, but if the number's don't add up don't feel compelled to do anything now because you'll just feel maximum pain a year out after purchasing. 

For my Agent side, I use Kv Core, and it seems to do a good job.

@Brian Ash I'm sure Core Logic has a product...I also use Valuate...but unsure if non-licensed folks can access or not (seems to be an extension of REALTORS Property Resource). 

I found it incredibly supportive to join Central Ohio Real Estate Entreprenuers (COREE), which is the local REIA.