Be sure to ask plenty of questions.Also, check out https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/12/topics/79320-so-your-new-to-this-a-guide-for-the-new for some great information to know when getting started.Feel free to connect and reach out!

Obviously if the house is vacant that doesn't help me reach out to the homeowner.

I have reached out to zoning department but not heard back yet so hoping someone here may know the answer. 

I was more so looking at a buy, rehab, and rent situation, with the possibility of flipping depending on the metrics on the buy.

@Sarah Tankersley if you see something you want to buy 40 miles to the east in Huntsville, please reach out to me. 

My contact information is in my profile, feel free to reach out if you want ti discuss how we got started.

Fell free to reach out to me with any questions you have about the Trenton market.Thanks, Stephen Chatto

Secondly, figure out a way to prospect every day including reaching out to local FSBO's, researching and calling Expired Listings, calling local probate lawyers and getting your name out there, and calling lenders to build relationships in hopes of getting REO's.

Reach out to hard money lenders (if the deal has enough room in it).  

I remember we used to chat on occassion on Trulia back before they merged with Zillow.If I can ever be of assistance please don't hesitate to reach out.