At 800+ points it's a good headstart. But somebody abandoned the town for some reasons.
You need some builders, and some money makers. Also, a small town will be attacked by nearby larger towns, so some duelers/soldiers are welcomed.
You need the hotel first (it may be already built); you need an upgraded residences, so you can invite more people; you need some shops so people will have an incentive to join; you need a bank level 2 (at least), so more money can be deposited.
Good shops are the tailor (all levels) and the general store (levels 1 and 2); The gunsmith becomes effective from levels 3-4, you might want to delay building it until you have the resources for at least 3 levels. The shop level 3 is worthless, build it only if you can build the level 4 afterwards.
Upgrading the hotel is twice as difficult as upgrading other buildings, but each level allows town members to work 1/2 hour more (and sleep 1/2 hour less) every 24 hours.
Pushing the bank forward (level 4+) may come against you, because the players will keep their extra money in the bank instead of donating to the town. It's recommended to keep the bank at a level so enough money can be saved in order to buy the most expensive item in the shops, except the fancy ones.
The town hall gas a very small influence on building time and cost. I recommend delaying upgrading it; I keep it 2 levels below the shops.
The residences must be upgraded as people continue joining; once the town becomes bigger, invite only higher level players - they usually have some money saved up and can donate immediately. When inviting, mention the minimum level of contributions. You will find all kinds of people, from the ones who donate their last 2$, to ones who don't contribute anything. Don't be afraid to kick out the "freeloaders". You and one of your councilors/founders can use the "good cop, bad cop" approach with these ones, to make them pay for their place in town.
Don't give founder status to a member of your town unless you completely trust him, because he can then kick you out and take over your town and work.
