No need for python skills, only need to have python installed so you can compile the module system. The module system is where everything is done, read up on it on the taleworlds modding forum. As for other tools, use your preferred programming/scripting editor, like notepad++. To view/edit/extract objects like 3d models and 2d meshes you'll need a program called openbrf.
To add features to cRPG though, you'll need the cRPG module system, which obviously isn't available to those that are not cRPG devs/high ranking admins. Trust is the key-word here.