Being proactive is probably one of the key things they are looking for.Hope that helps

For example, you set up key word alerts. http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts

Its a very industrial town with a very high percentage of the population renting.Housing is dirt cheep in Sheboygan and you can find good cash flowing deals if you are patient.  

Even if you have to start small and be patient. 

For example, you set up key word alerts. http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts

Buying correctly is the key to being successful in RE

The buyers have determined that this property is in the wrong neighborhood for $1,000,000 and they wouldn't even buy it at $269,000.The key to pricing a property is knowing the neighborhood that it resides in.

The Jones' built the house but NO ONE was keeping up with them.The key is knowing the neighborhood and what is considered over doing it, in line, and under doing it.

I secured it up to $1000.00 so I could easily pay for things like my gas groceries and phone while only utilizing 20-30% of my balance, which I have heard is the key to establishing credit.

But, if you think you'll have more, leveraging your cash is a key thing to do.While I agree with @Uriah D. that you might want to consider wholesaling, nothing can beat the experience if you do want to do more flips.