1. Compare your prices with top teams in your division. Always have a good pr. Like lvl.5 with salary around 17k. It costs only few k.
2. Do not tank. You can be very competitive. Estimate your income, take a look at rosters of other teams and make plans for your roster accordingly. You can find good players on transfer market that will improve your team at low prices. Make sure to gain money every week until you are ready to try to win title.
Good luck.