I've researched doing postcards, SEO, bill boards, and even radio ads; is anyone doing these and are they effective?

@D’Andre Legrand - more effective is a hard thing to answer.

I'd rather pay less for the first home than have to come out of pocket for renovations.The reason I asked this is because there is a 3b 2b for a decent price in Ridgway where I live...now it's typically rlly expensive here....the 3b 2b that popped up is a trailer/modular home on a small plot of land.

Make sure you have plenty of coverage and you get soil condition reports before making building because it may effect what you do.Keep all of the reserve money for nature-related damage just in case you need it.  

The draw to this property is that it sits on a ridge top with beautiful views, has wildlife feed plots planted, conservation pine forests, pond, etc.

I have read multiple books on how to analyze properties. Most of them all say the same thing on how to get gross income minus expenses including vacancy, CapEx, repairs, taxes, insurance, mortgage payments, etc. The a...

It's the long way around to generate opportunities.I find it much more effective to look for properties with problems, some of which will be prior to probate. 

If a subscription is not cost effective for you find an outside service that can help generate leads, sometimes they can offer a better price than buying directly from the website.

Depending on the local law, the court records showing the case was resolved may be enough to show a title company that the lis pendens is no longer of any effect.

I went to the city council meeting and saw the presentation and overall feel this is going to be great for our city but was wondering if some more experienced investors have any thoughts on how this might positively or negatively effect the housing & rental markets in Ypsilanti.