I know a common answer is that I have to network, get out there, ask around, etc. but I am still confused on what information I am supposed to be trying to find out from these efforts.

One of the main reasons why I want to do real estate is because after losing my job last because to a merger, I wanted to have another way to provide for my family and to reach financial independence one day.My goal is to become a buy and hold investor, buying duplexes and multi-families in my area and possibly out of state. 

I also deliver the printer's marketing material along with my letters, so I get a discount on the print jobs.

But, this is the exact type of question I would refer to my escrow officer, regardless if I even had common knowledge. 

Your issue is very common & a rain diverter is the solution.

And its also very common for developers who build new condos to turn around and sell them within a couple years because they don't want to keep that kind of liability on their books.

From what I’ve heard its pretty common place, but I may be incorrect.

@Jessica Chow Unpermitted work is common in CA, if they don’t like to pay for it, on to the next buyer. 80% of the buyers in CA will not care about permits, to other states its the other way around probably.

My question is this: how old do I have to be to start investing (assuming I have a good paying job?)

What I suggest is getting a job for a few years that allows you to save some money and improve your credit.