I will be training to compete next year, but what I'd heard time and time again is that the best thing you can invest in is a good trainer/coach. Somoene who is experienced in competition prep and can guide you in the right direction when it comes to manipulating your body. There are lots of them out there that range from awful to amazing with price tags to match. Maybe start asking some of the personal trainers at your gym if they know of any competition coaches. There are also a lot of online coaches you can hire that will send you detailed meal and exercise plans. You would check in weekly with them on the phone or on Skype so they can change your plan as necessary.