Aloha,Not sure if this works well in a cold location, I do not recall seeing it in the Midwest, however here we often install CMU blocks directly in the dirt (sometimes with gravel bed, sometimes just compacted dirt base), in their usual upright orientation, with the open cells filled with dirt and planted with grass, and the blocks spaced to maintain the "pattern" of the crosshatch.

But I haven't had an issue where I have needed it either, that might be when I find out if I set it up right... probably not  the best time to find that out. :) I'm not to worried about having set mine up by myself, but if it would give you peace of mind to have an attorney help you, I think the little bit of money you'd spend on one, would be money well spent. 

I used Upright Electric And was very happy- but it seems like he dropped off the earth.Previously I used Dependable ElectricBut he tended to be booked out far- not sure what his policy is on emergencies.I used Sweet Home Electric for a semi emergency when I was out of town (tenant found them) and they were fine, but...  

They are family and friends, yes, which is why I want it to be on the up-and-up. Right

I have all the bathrooms opened up right now so now is the perfect time.

I don't think hard money lenders will do "construction loans", and the few private money options I know of have their money tied up right now.

Consequently, the laws benefit the tenants much more than the owners.Full disclosure here:I have $7,000 saved up right now. 3.5% of 7,000 is 200,000.

@Austin Shade Prices are up right now everywhere.

I don't have much capital built up right now but I do have good credit and lots of time.Please I would greatly appreciate anyone to reply with any words of advise of any type.

Especially in Illinois - Tenant friendly statePs how come you submit an application for her daughter - age should come up right away!