Any tips or insights would be greatly appreciated!

I would also attend the upcoming multifamily events in the fall, whereto can meet other investorsGino

The options are, demo the lot, split the lot and then sell 2 lots to the builder or build myself.

The cheat sheet/example greatly reduced time.

The easiest solution is typically keeping water away from the wall. 

Current timeline to purchase is probably 6-12 months as I start narrowing down and visiting some of the places to get a better idea over the next few months.

Also it would be helpful to attend SoCTREIA's Women in R.E. meetings, check out their website.

Have you checked the BizBuySell website?

The biggest reason I would advocate for mixed use is for the reasons you mentioned, the leases are longer, but also the general "issues" around tenants on the residential side don't come into play as much or at all. 

Happy to be part of the community