Also, if you become a PRO member, you can have access to amazing tools and resources like:Weekly webinars:https://www.biggerpockets.com/webinarOr the forums, or great guides and books:https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investin...https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/01/3...https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/01/0...http://get.biggerpockets.com/flippingbook/Or you can analyze deals to start getting practice before you actually jump in:https://www.biggerpockets.com/flip-analysisI would also suggest you look for local Real Estate Investing Associations or clubs meetings to begin networking with people in the industry.

I'd recommend reading through The Ultimate Beginner's Guide if you're looking for a solid overview of REI.

Does anyone use another strategy or rule to quickly run through deals?

The fees can start adding up quickly.

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.

If you haven't already let me recommend the BP podcasts, guides (dropdown under education), and the webinars.  

I'm particularly interested in renovating and doing quick flips.

They are expensive, but a good resource and can usually close quickly (which can be a necessity with many deals).  

Are you hoping to quickly build equity in order to do more deals?

In my opinion the best markets are the ones you are familiar with and can get to quickly.