I'd be happy to run the numbers and cross-check for you.

I am currently reading "Long Distance Real Estate Investing", by David Green (published by Bigger Pockets) and decided to apply some of the analysis to a currently listed deal on NORADA. 

As long as you have at least 20% down, assets for reserves + closing costs, and your rent covers the debt service 1:1 - it should be a green light just about anywhere.

I find it difficult to step into foreclosures since, in my experience, books and courses I've crossed by are very surface level. 

Recommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder (BiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social Network), etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

Any options, especially green ones, on construction cost savings.

Quote from @Jonathan Greene: Connect with Elenis and Isaac Camargo of Thirdstone Properties in Jacksonville.

@Jonathan Greene I am from Pittsburgh so I generally know which areas I would like to avoid. 

BUT if you cross collateralize with another property you own that has equity, you’ll be able to get closer to 100% CLTV.  

Green Bay is great, no need to look into Milwaukee.