Thanks Edward, I have been meaning to attend some meetings out here, and will definitely make that a priority. 

I would suggest attending some of the local REI meetings here in San Antonio.  

I look forward to meeting those who will be able to attend. 

I could probably find this info out at the local REIA, however, I usually have to attend my daughters functions during same time as monthly REIA meetings.

(Once you filed for the TDA, you will earn the 18% (1.5%/month) on the ENTIRE amount including any interest that accrued before you filed the TDA.You can bid at the tax deed auction but my understanding is that you have no advantage at the auction over anyone else who attends the auction and bids.  

Also for networking and learning the ins&outs you should attend Pine Financial's REI meetups at Grumpy's in Roseville every 2nd Tuesday of the month at 6pm in their banquet hall (Feb 14th is the next one).  

I am currently attending a seminar to get started with rental property investing.

After reading through lots of recommendations about starting out with local REIA I decided to attend a local Houston REIA meeting (houston RENC).

@Andrew Zannotti absolutely interested in attending please let me know.

Sign up and attend the free webinars, be an active listener and take notes, it does really help.