Before spending much time seraching - make sure you have  the other elements addressed and in place  (  funds for  closing /  finnancing /  contractors  etc...) .   

Im located in Phx,Az and its common here to still see empty dirt land in prime areas of city, as an example, my father who knows next to nothing about real estate purchased a 7k sqft gated dirt land  in the city 3yrs ago for $35k cash, was planning to invest in it but it was too much hassle for him so recently he sold it for $140k .What's a good way to find good deals on empty dirt land  in the city or close by, does mls offer this search option.

Maybe once I can get more specific numbers and plans I can lay those out to be critiqued.

Despite these challenges, the successful sale at $39,000 highlighted the importance of strategic planning, effective marketing, and strong partnerships in achieving quick and profitable outcomes in real estate investments with Partner Driven.

Because yeah, they make a lot, but there spending is equally massive so NET, net is near to nothing monthly.     

The plan was to buy after 1 year, then covid hit, market was crazy, they did not want to "participate in the madness."

go to the county permit office and see who pulled the permit or look at the plans to see who the GC is.

I am planning on installing new carpet, countertops and paiting the cabinets right away when purchasing.

There is a lot of competition and you need a lot of marketing spend even to make a dent.

Earn more, spend less, save, then invest.