I reckon I'm going to regard tenants as my focus until I have an acceptable occupancy level and improved cash flow, at which point I will be better positioned to think about expansion and further investment.Thaks for all the valuable input!

Some centers have expansion and contraction issues with the foundation if they are built before a certain time and used a particular type of construction technique. 

Just look at the news - Google and LinkedIn asked for 5M sf of new development in the City of Mountain View, and last night the City awarded only about 2M, essentially turning down Google's expansion request.  

With a growing team, the Kansas City expansion is shaping up to be a significant investment.

Get expansion $ elsewhere.

YES, it is a known factor throughout pockets of Texas to have expansive soils. 

I see a lot of structural problems due to our expansive soils and poor drainage. 

Looks like the minor league baseball team has pulled out, but other good news from the article below.The county says the cancellation of the stadium build won't impact other projects, including the Riverwalk expansion, Runyon Sports Complex expansion, and Main Street pedestrian redesign.https://www.krdo.com/news/minor-league-baseball-te...

Example:All assume 20% down, 6%, 30 year loan and apply the 50% rule for expanse, capital and vacancy.Crappy deal: $1000 rent for $100,000 purchase priceCash flow per month: $20Cash on cash return: $1.2%Taxable income: -$1682Good deal: $1000 rent for $66,000 purchase priceCash flow per month: $183Cash on cash return: 17%Taxable income: $930So, with good deals, an IRA could potentially shelter the income.

My initial thought in taking on this project was to try and build a team in that region for future expansion.