I believe I've got a possible partner in the making for what I believe is called a rehab and hold type deals, and I told him I would get him and me the Bigger Pockets flipping book, but is this best resource for this type of deal?

I'm also a big fan of John Grisham books :) It's always awesome to have new guys here with some good specific knoweldge - in your case, taxes!

I found some similar threads on this, and this begs the question: what free or low-cost resources/books/trainings would you advise?

If it's ok to plug someone's book on this forum, read Danny Johnson's "Flipping Houses Exposed".

Start by educating yourself here and through some good books.

Zero in my book.

I would like it for a broker to cover the costs, the classes, books and test are $450.

I am a new investor, with basically no cash, and my strategy right now is to start flipping to build some cash up and then to eventually go into buy and hold strategy for long-term wealth.My plan is to read the book on biggerpockets that is for sale on House Flipping, and also if I can find a mentor ( where I will of coarse help out in doing free labor or whatever I can to learn the business).

I read in a book about flipping that I could call a title company and have them give me a list of home owners with out of state tax id's.

One book that will really help you do your market research and due diligence is: "Buy It, Rent It, Profit!