This is a very personal question that is difficult to answer. 

BUT, let’s say for personal reasons you want to “stretch” for faster wealth accumulation.  

Thank you,KVBelow are my answers to some of your questions that I feel qualified enough to answer and then some of my personal thoughts on where to go from here."

Don't talk yourself into a place because of personal use.Buying a $475k condo that brings in 35k in gross rental income will lose a lot of money.

When structuring a deal, what might work for one person, may not work for the other.

But, you need to talk directly to the person whose name is on title. 

Not sure if they have upgraded to desktop appraisals but if they are still doing in person appraisals , make sure you get everything (scope of work, good faith deposit, social, LLC docs, insurance, proof of prior experience, financial statements) in ASAP.

from my advice rural properties and developments aren't successful and you are climbing an uphill battle. sounds a little niche. we focus on developing and not reinventing the wheel. if this is truly what you want to focus all your time and energy on then visit the closest 5-10 of these that look like the ones you are interested and ask if they'd expand or build a secondary one. do a lot of research before you just take action 

I was fortunate enough to live in Detroit for several years, so I was able to establish a network before moving back to California.

If you have, you have put yourself at great personal risk.Again, I recommend you get a lawyer as soon as possible.