James,  It sounds to me like you are making the right decision on taking the community college classes.  With the basic knowledge you will gain, you will be a more attactive canidate for an entry level position.  This will hold true whether you eventually train to be an abstactor, closing officer or realtor.  All employers will grade you higher based on your prior efforts to gain knowledge of the industry.  I wish you the best in your endeavours.  Doug