🌳Now, parks like this only further help develop the area.

My goals are to start building an investment portfolio of professionally managed (I could tell you all the reasons I will not do it myself) multi-family properties and, in time, develop a property in the Northwoods (Wisconsin/UP).

They prioritize personal development.

Prices remain relatively low, but appreciation may be slower.Monroe: A mix of cash flow and appreciation potential, Monroe has become a popular choice for investors, especially in areas where new developments are popping up.Appreciation-Focused NeighborhoodsBallantyne: A well-established area with high demand, Ballantyne offers excellent long-term appreciation potential, though cash flow opportunities may be limited.South End: A booming urban hub with a vibrant retail and restaurant scene.

And are there any other skills I should focus on and develop?

Curious to know opinions from real estate agents, flippers, developers and anyone in the know regarding what home buyers generally would prefer.

New builds, new developments, plenty of rentals within driving distance of the city center, and there are still plenty of areas where a good eye for a rehab job will get you a good ROI.

Darrius  Local PM here - happy to help, we have multiple developments that are gearing up to sell in the next 6 months, few small multis and townhouses.

Plus, you get amazing appreciation potential due to how much population growth, job growth, and companies moving and developing here.

If it won't have any effect then don't do it.