(Looking for population growth, job growth, business growth, transportation growth, etc).

I can't get the picture in view in mobile, but if you have soil "erosion" under a patio slab you're likely looking at soil transport instead (soil getting moved by water).

After people tromp through it you'll essentially be selling a "not new" unit like a demo car. 2) who's paying for transport?

Train transportation, 3 universities/colleges...Peterbilt trucks, Winstar casino, etc.   

I'm also willing to look at different locations as long as I'm able to get to NYC via mass transportation. 

As for myself, I work full time as a transportation analyst in Orange County, CA.

Looks like your transportation costs are almost 26% of your monthly income - and that’s JUST payment and insurance.  

The apartment is pretty small and in a very promising area (close to all the attractions and very well connected with public transport).However, I have no idea how to fund this investment.

Lot + Home = $50k + whatever installation fee, transport etc.

If you guys are making $150-$200 an hour in your jobs minus taxes, transportation, expenses, whatever, more power to you, but it sure sounds like you're paying a very heavy premium here to keep your hands clean and free of the taint of manual labor.