Some people will find QuickBooks to be less user friendly than Mint but if you are going to be investing in real estate it is very helpful to become proficient in business oriented software.

Try and focus on that niche until you are proficient don't chase the latest and greatest niche you hear about on a podcast.Look out for sales pitches and gurus.

If you find someone who does a couple of different things, like a general handyman who can cover multiple tasks, just make sure they're proficient in everything they claim to do (electricity, plumbing, installation/carpentry, flooring, etc.)

As you become proficient with each, you will be able to identify and apply the appropriate solution to engineer profitable transactions from previously “impossible” deals.As we say, “Find the opportunity and the money will come.”

I also learned many other trades working industrial and commercial construction (I'd say I'm proficient at plumbing, sheetmetal and electric) for over 10 years before moving over to the management side of construction and maintenance. ~20 years in the trades on one side of the fence or the other. 

Working with a competent construction partner is extremely important however you will want to become proficient in creating your own rehab budget.  

Then again, my GC and his crew are extremely proficient.

I am pretty proficient with swinging a hammer.

I have been calling around Wichita looking for an attorney that is proficient in owner carry and contract for deed law.

Begin common “beat” of neighborhoods to check in.4.Figure out which websites to scour and how to do so proficiently to find such deals.5.Become friends with really good wholesalers.