I believe every sucessful investor should have a tool box full of skills, that include wholesaling, flipping, renting, buy and hold, creative finance and more!

I want to build a scalable process, hopefully using free tools.

It can be a hugely beneficial tool.

Converting to Podio or a similar tool shouldn't be too difficult.

I've read this article on the rule, (https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/1...) which explains it pretty well but I still I don't know what number applies as a screening tool for my market.

It's my go-to tool for getting owner information.

It's not terribly difficult, and there are great tools on the website (sample tenant applications, tenant screening tips, etc) if you poke around the tools tab at the top.A couple pointers:  be aware of tenant anti-discrimination laws.  

Hi @Emily KesslerWith all of the free online tools, I recommend finding your own tenant.

.- Pre-buy construction materials maybe even some storage to put them in- Buy tools for you or your contractors to use on a future flip - Hire an accountant to help with some of these ideas

Look into 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.