I've also found through trial and error that a contractor might be good on one job, but then disappear or completely fall off the grid.

Budget was mentioned a few times and i would agree that if there is one thing one that you are planning to do then budgeting should be it.I recently starting using YNAB (they offer a 30 day trial). i have used excel sheet in the past and i think i may have tried other programs long time ago but did not really like any of them.

I believe BP members get a few trial runs with the calculator for free.

This is going to be a bit controversial but i would suggest avoiding direct ownership of real estate all together if someone wanted to get involved with little money.I would suggest starting with renting an apartment that does not have sublease restrictions and test out short term vacation rentals (market dependent).

I did a free trial with foreclosure.com but I've read that sites like that may not be as up to date with current pre foreclosures and that most likely people have already been contacted.

I'm developing my probate real estate investing strategy and there is one point where controversy is rampant. 

@Steven MitchellWell I tried this service in February 2019, for a seven day trial period for $3.95...

MJ Edwards I have started my free trial with ReiPro.

There’s a 7 day free trial and then $100 per month but well worth it.

You could read 100 books and still not know enough because certain things must be learned through trial and error.