It would be useful to try and build up some contacts in the industry which should hopefully allow you to get access to interesting property investments before they hit the public market. Sometimes, its not what you know, but who you know
If you have a particular area in mind I would recommend contacting local real estate agents and letting them know that you are a potential buyer. Money talks in this industry and very quickly you will have a raft of properties to choose from!
Either way, it's best to have a property manager that could manage your property. They have it all from advertising, marketing, tenants, property maintenance, etc.