I’m currently doing research about up and coming areas such as this post as well as looking for local groups.

I’ll keep you all posted  

do you guys post off market deals on there/is there a better place to find be off market deals in Canton rather than Craigslist or marketplace? 

The issues can be local so look for someone in your area who is posting and try to contact.   

I read a forum post on a personal finance blog about a user using YNAB and Credit Karma together to problem solve. 

For example how many post do we see that Say I live in LA which is expensive and need to look OOS .. and how many post do we see that says I live in Cleveland and I want to invest in LA. ???

At a minimum,  you should understand what the current zoning is and what restrictions there are.As the post above mentioned reaching out or going in person to speak with the planning and zoning department will be very helpful. 

EDIT: Can't delete this post, so simply editing it.

Or if you’d be swamped by forum posts saying developer. 

I've bought hundreds of properties at Tax Sale, but only Tax Deed Sales, and have posted on the subject many times on BP.