kris, the little magnifying glass, up by your name/photo in right hand corner, works "ok" for me (but it is no google in my view)..a key, though, is having the right terms..

Guess perspective is the key.

The key is the call to action.

So I can then figure out who is sending the letters.Wholesaling and  knowing your market is the key.

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

The key to success of this program is the intensive training and follow up.Direct mail, the letters are professional written, with a call to action and a sample of what can be accomplished if they call to do business (letters NOT written on yellow paper!).

Than based off how much you have / approved for / heloc you can decide if you want to purchase turn key or not. 

Does anyone have tips/resources on navigating this scenario; finding a good broker, questions to ask, key analysis to run to compare properties and gauging local economic health?

B. (1) BUYER HAS: 30 Days After Acceptance, unless otherwise agreed in writing, to: (i) complete all Buyer Investigations; review all disclosures, reports, lease documents to be assumed by Buyer pursuant to paragraph 8B(5), and other applicable information, which Buyer receives from Seller; and approve all matters affecting the Property; and (ii) Deliver to Seller Signed Copies of Statutory and Lead Disclosures and other disclosures Delivered by Seller in accordance with paragraph 10A. (2) Within the time specified in paragraph 14B(1), Buyer may request that Seller make repairs or take any other action regarding the Property (C.A.R.

My plan is to purchase my first property in the first quarter 2016 with almost a turn key house.