If starting totally fresh, then chose a CMS with plenty of good
SEO additions. I still think that Wordpress is the best, with configurable permalinks, plenty of plugins (random, related posts etc.) and
SEO packs to help control on page aspects.
Really once you have chosen a good CMS / template it is about quality content and quality links. Write good content articles, posts etc. Stick to the 300-500 word range. Ensure good English (grammer & spelling) and that it is written for people. Do not keyword stuff.
Then get links.