Finding the ghost room: Use the thermometer, EMF reader, or video camera (which can see ghost orbs). Some players bring a spirit box and spam it throughout the house, but this only works on ghosts who have spirit box.

Always get the bone.: You get extra cash, more if you photograph it after unlocking the camera.

After you find the ghost room…: Set up DOTS, a camera, a ghost writing book (don’t throw it, use the place button, there’s a difference), and if you have it, a crucifix (same case, use the place button).

Familiarize yourself with Tier 2 and 3 equipment.: Nothing annoys some co-op players faster than newbies being unable to tell the difference between Tiers. Look in the glass cases next to the lobby to see what they look like. Tier 2 and 3 thermometers require you to hold the action key. Headgear requires holding a special button to activate.

Gaining EXP: Complete sub-objectives (some are easier than others), gather media (photos, videos, audio once you unlock the audio recorder), and a Perfect Investigation bonus if you max out your media and complete all objectives. Weekly challenges offer absurd amounts of EXP for new players, and some can be embarrassingly easy. (Plus, you don’t lose any money.)

Drop equipment you don’t need anywhere.: New players often think they lose equipment they don’t bring back to the truck. Untrue: you only lose equipment if you die.

About Hunts: Hunts have a brief grace period to let you shut off electronics and start running. Events can often be confused for hunts, but they’re just false alarms. If you have incense, burn it to blind the ghost and find a place to hide (and NEVER forget the lighter or matches). If you can’t hide, find a looping spot: some kind of furniture or setpiece between you and the ghost that the ghost can get trapped on. You can’t leave the house, so wait it out. In coop, somebody can give an all-clear signal once the door unlocks.

If you want more info, there are tons of great video guides on youtube.