If so how close is the nearest laundry mat??

One excellent source of that information is Mat Sorensen.

I'm strapped for cash right now to pay for anything.

Driving around and noticed a few signs strapped to street signs or power poles advertising properties for sale "3/2 1 mile from beach $109,000".Are these properties sold by owners?  

Two other things I find handy are a welcome mat to wipe feet particularly in bad weather and a tape measure.

State education departments are rather strapped but may partner in some respects for housing with operators.Your plan to locate "a" house for rehab might work, but you won't have many financing opportunities, general conventional avenues and seller financing.

There is an excellent book on the subject THE SELF DIRECT IRA HANDBOOK by Mat Sorensen 

Luckily the income grew as expenses grew, so we didn't feel strapped.  

You could always pay extra then required to knock down years left on the mortgage if you want.15 years is just strapped to a higher payment.  

The thing is, in a perfect case scenario, the sellers would like to sell the land together and sell to someone who would be able to develop a subdivision here, but they are so strapped with medical bills and finances, they just want to get out.The good: There are two major subdivisions that have been built (Santa Rita Ranch) very close to the land.The bad: I haven't worked with this much land beforeThe ugly: (Please refer to the bad).Any insight or recommendations as to approach and/or potential exit strategies would be greatly appreciated!