Similarly I can cite numerous FHA and VA guidelines that would be in violation of federal fair housing laws if Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac did it. 

Tough going I know as I do all the work myself on flip homes and have dealt with to the stud gut jobs numerous times.

FWIW I'm very good with wet sanding and refinishing fiberglass (mostly boats).

My name is Logan McCaughan and I am a 25 y.o. professional (software developer) from Charlottesville area looking to get my feet wet with real estate investing.

Plus, as you mentioned, you then enjoy the flexibility of improved layouts and updated hardware (soft-close, easier to adjust, etc).I take a very similar approach to you - you have to get your feet wet before you can truly learn what works/doesn't work.

When you are ready make a purchase thats ultra safe so you can get your feet wet first.

We bought a duplex last year essentially sight unseen but we knew the area very well and had driven that street numerous times. 

That's a good way to get your feet wet in regard to screening tenants, dealing with issues, dealing with maintenance, etc....

Also, if you have a loan, you will have a ton of finance fees, but those are standard bank fees.I have numerous settlement statements showing this.

I do web design at work, and there are numerous parts that need to send emails to clients.