You already have a lot of tools in your toolbox as shown in your profile....no pun intended.Now, you simply have to work on the other elements to progress your REI pursuit.Ok, now that you have taken your initial step, below are some quick links to get engaged. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meethttps://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/ruleshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/termshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/inviteshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/perkshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/categoriesREI books suggested by BPershttp://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

You can perform a background check / credit report through BP's tools (Tenant Screening) or use other tools -- I use CIC Apply Connect.LeaseYou want it to be state specific, but if you're worried about legal fees, then a state specific one (without the personalization) can work well.

If you go to the "tools" tab, you can find the House Flipping, Rental Property, & Wholesaling.I used the Rental Property Calculator to create my own offline excel document to run the numbers.

I needed to look at money as a tool, not an end unto itself. 

What websites and tools do you use to learn about average listing prices, sale prices, and rents?  

The analytical tools available here on BP (above under the Tools Tab) will give you plenty of financials to show your parents and you will probably impress them with your analysis and presentation if done properly.  

@John ArmandoWelcome to BP.I am also a new to this world so I will share with you what I am doing to get myself educated: 1)Go pro – No I don’t work for BP, but you get the tools you absolutely need to be successful as a pro member hands down. 2)Listen to every single BP pod cast.

They make it difficult to lose money if you utilize the tools and professional resources available here prior to committing yourself to deals.

(Ground rules, tools, etc)

Deal analysis services exist in various forms from mentoring, partnerships and analytical tools.