There are countless posts over the years with all types of companies selling this stuff.On Facebook I must see 10 suggested posts a week by companies promoting TRAINING, blah,blah,blah.

I highly suggest you to read, "The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Real Estate Investing."

I was a rookie and did not take this into consideration when taking on the property, even though it came up in the inspections (which I re-read after my contractor told me of this issue, I did not know the magnitude of what it meant when it came up, and the realtor did not point out what it meant).I would suggest getting off BP, and searching the internet to find a local asbestos guy who can give you the facts. 

Any suggestions from investors who purchase a property and  perform interior rehab with tenants occupying the unit?

I'd ultimately like to make $600-$1,000 per month in cash-flow.Since housing tends to be pretty expensive in my area, I don't know if I want to focus on buying properties here (as a beginner), or expand to long-distance investing.Some suggestions / advice here would be greatly appreciated.As mentioned, I am brand new to all of this! 

If anyone has any suggestions or opinions, please share. 

Realistically, I suggest seeing all available, (New, Resales, Foreclosures, etc.) then you have a logical basis for making an educated decision of which home best suits your needs and lifestyle. 5.

,One thing I'd suggest, is a hefty fee if any animal is found on the premise,  $1,000 and/or immediate eviction, and bring it up in the 2nd email or so.. it won't offend those who don't have pets, and should cut out a lot of the animal hiders.   

You could do as Andrew suggested above.

Any help and suggestions would be greatly appreciated.