Based on my DF1 experience my take is this:

Scout out the new DF2 map during beta. Learn the locations and mob spawns, what mobs drop what (did they change loot tables etc.) What dungeons are good and you can 'exploit' out of (because let's face it that's what DF was).

Find the best locations in the game early before release hits so you settle their via housing/city asap instead of weeks into release when it will be too late. The location on the world map greatly influences guild wealth and character progression (money = mats to level magic = better equipment to melee with = better bows to deal RDPS with)