With more agents competing over less deals in a low-inventory market, you'll certainly see folks focusing more on transactions than relationships.That said, I don't think this applies across the board as more experienced agents understand that relationships win no matter the market climate.

Flipping (short game) is risky due to our economic climate.

Even though it may not be the same economic climate where you reside I can tell you what people here have done to set themselves up for retirement.

Birmingham, Alabama has a warm humid temperate climate with hot summers and no dry season.Over the course of a year, the temperature typically varies from 33°F to 90°F and is rarely below 20°For above 96°F. 

In cold climates you want to make sure the deepened perimeter of the slab is below the frost line so the expansion of frozen soil doesn't heave the building up, but if it has been fine since the 50's you should be ok.

In today's climate, if your not doing a larger deal with a loan of >$1MM, chances are your going to be doing looking to do a sale (possibly a land sale) via a contract for deed.  

Most people from warm climates don't believe me that there are nice winter days but their are!

Google the company name Climate Smith, you would see his contact info there.

I look for properties that are:1- near major places of employment that is relevant to todays business climate 2- Close to Hospitals 3- Close to Universities 4- Close to Transportation (Major Hwys, bus, train and ferry services).

This is very nice in cold climates so you don't end up with frozen pipes and other damage.