What a great idea!

I would love to chat with you about this idea we can pick each others brains a bit.

My general idea?

What makes you think starting in Section 8 is a good idea?

I'm just beginning but am considering a bigger commitment in the next five years or so by accessing some or even all retirement funds to buy a building (I'm sure people have thoughts on whether or not that is a good idea!).

Multifamily properties can be a great way to build wealth, but only if they align with your risk tolerance and lifestyle.Hearing from others who’ve been in similar situations might also provide reassurance and ideas.

any ideas if there are any builders who would sell it to investors like me who wish to add new construction SFH's to their portfolios ?

Seems like a good idea in theory maybe not in practice. 

Also what does the city say is the assessed value of the property on your taxes (it will be different than the appraised value, but should give you an idea).

If the seller isn't responsive, then do like the idea of telling the tenant you tried, and see if they can get some free legal assistance from a tenant resource center.It is a good reminder as closing approaches to ask the seller to keep tenants updated on the pending sale and when ownership is scheduled to change.