Most markets are seeing full price or above for listings, so I am not sure this strategy is going to be very effective. 

About to engage in a bidding war with some other investors, what are some good strategies to navigate this type of negotiation? 

Do you have any tips on how I can properly analyze my deals effectively?

(still a good option)Bandit signs can also be pretty cost effective but just be ready to hustle and put these signs all over town (not a big fan of this approach, but I know many wholesalers get massive deals from these) In the beginning I had more hustle than money, so I hustled more using cheaper marketing methods such as these.

Meet up and learn.And, then you'll be ready to engage an investor-focused realtor who can help you target the right properties at the right valuation. 

I am an infantryman in the Army (so not much I can transfer over to the civilian world other than being able to manage people effectively).

Anyone have tips/tricks on how to find and keep GOOD contractors and keep them engaged throughout the project? 

If he/she thinks they can help, I would be happy to reach out myself.The basis of my questions is rooted in which approach would ultimately be more cost effective.

With COVID and politics not effecting the market YET, there are numerous more changes coming to the market that NO lender has experienced.

Given the SoCal prices, the unknown future effects on real estate from Covid and elections, it might make sense to continue saving up so that you can make a GREAT purchase in the near future, rather than a decent purchase now.