You can start with the Beginner's Guide, it would be a good material to learn REI. 

Of course, you need to read The Ultimate Beginners Guide to REI here on BPIf you haven’t already, please read/listen to these books ASAP!

Then, download the BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide and start reading some more!!

its encouraging to have strangers willing to help out a beginner. 

@Brian Bassano and @Matthew Rodriguez, I am in New Rochelle and in the same beginners boat.

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.

I also suggest you check out the financing videos here https://www.biggerpockets.com/courses/a-beginners-...

Try to go through this as soon as possible, it will kick start your knowledge (in case you're a beginner, I'm not sure):https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investin...I'm  also in the same situation as you, and I've been in "guru" classes, meetings, etc. and believe me, there's nothing they provide that you cannot get here for free (or a couple $100's), with such a great community in the forums, the podcast, the webinars and instant replies with a wealth of information.  

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is relying on an agent that typically sells owner-occupied housing--most of those agents don't know enough about investment property to help you do the proper due diligence necessary to close a good deal.  

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.