@Brandon Turner actually wrote a whole book on the subject and it's a very worthwhile read:http://get.biggerpockets.com/nomoneydown/Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of BP and kickstart your investing career:Start here.

Early on I e-mailed the listing agent of a property I was interested in and she replied and attached the standard Realtor PSA for my state for free.  

Any tips and safeguard on staying on budget? 

I'm looking to hire established general and sub contractors but would like the BP community to provide me tips on what to look for, as well as how to obtain wholesale pricing on construction items.Thanks in advance!

http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/10/01/bp-podcast-142-22-and-a-half-actionable-tips-beginner-real-estate-investors-with-josh-brandon/Best wishes as you get started!

Any tips on how to choose a good assessor, and how to interface with them?

One tip I read and tried was a ghost ad.

@Jean BolgerThanks for the tip!

I have succeeded, after a few tries, in obtaining the e-mail of an individual who can submit my request to be a qualified buyer/disposer of distressed assets.

If there is no motivation and no equity you don't have a deal so don't waste your time.Hope this helps.Sincerely,E.