Either the listing agent was watching it for someone including themselves or it was BS.  

Meet with local investors from on here, join local REI clubs, crime maps, watch the news, look at home values, etc.

I couldn't afford to get into their program but I watch any video Phil puts out because they are the best. 

For some reason this post reminds me of this scene...https://www.youtube.com/watch?

I use the MLS to look for deals but also watch craigslist and network with a few wholesalers.

There is so much that you need to watch out as you will probably get overload. 

you will need a private money second or a money partner.Things to watch out for: Only use a reputable lender, watch out for all the fees (appraisal, loan app fee, processing fee, notary fee, points, etc), be careful of those who may promise one thing but have more intention or ability to perform on it (over promise, under deliver), and make sure you fully understand all the docs you are signing.

The right to removal of the trustee usually is predicated on a breach of trust or some wrongdoing/fault on the part of the trustee, except the creator of the trust may remove a trustee at any time while he is alive (may watch out for a power-of-attorney that includes this power).

I recommend going to meetup.com and try to attend a few local investor events, the people there are seasoned investors that offer valuable insight on the areas to watch.  

I watched a movie "The Big Short" a couple of months ago and I kept thinking: "These guys figured out how to short SFH market.