In a nutshell, work with a local resource as they have more specific information to give you than a generic online site. 

Market, Circle of Competency, and Margin of Safety guide what type of investments I look at and thus how to deploy capital. 

I use resources like skip tracing, credit pulls, and many other resources and techniques to determine the borrower's ability to pay. 

I've finally decided to create an account on BP after soaking up loads of valuable information - fantastic resource and podcast.

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.

Thank you for sharing your resource too!

Should I use online resources?

Check out: The Ultimate Guide to Grading Cleveland Neighborhoodsand James Wise who made the map if you haven't gotten around to it already. 

Check out this Ultimate Guide on wholesaling, it can help a lot https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/01/31/ultimate-beginners-guide-real-estate-wholesaling-2/?

lots of resources here,  one local guy on here i know is active with oil and gas and might be a good resource for you on that end.