Make sure to listen to all the BP podcasts, read the articles on the main blog and be active in these forums to learn a ton very quickly about any topic in real estate you want to know more about.This is also a great place to meet people that can be assets to your business.

There are some good starting out articles on this site that you should dig into.Best of luck and let me know if you need anything!

I'm exploring the real estate world and have been looking at a whole ton of different properties online and trying to scope out my first deal.

I'm just spending much of my time reading books, articles and listening to the BP podcast right now before I dive in. 

Make sure they've done several deals in the area that you're exploring.  

Before you write an article about valuations of services, make sure you understand how services are valued.

Here is an article that helps explain the problem with bleach vs mold.

After that I hope to break into real estate somehow ( I've yet to decide exactly what I'll do—I'm in the early stages of education/exploration).

I have read through all the ARV articles but they seem geared towards single family homes.

It is a great place to explore and learn about REI, and take your time to discover what aspect most interests you.