@Mark AndersonIt's a two way conversation.So, you should tell them what you are looking to do and the style of investing you want to work with. 

I have 15 years experience as a Project Manager building Multi- Family projects anywhere from 9 unit town homes, 200 mid rise projects, to 400 unit Garden Style developments on previously undeveloped land.

However, due to Prop 10 and peak purchase prices, I am considering to diversify to other areas and style of investments.

On large projects like the one you are considering (a big one for "new" investor (your words not mine), we would have zoning, financing and environmental contingencies to mitigate the risk of closing and our earnest money.  

And the caps on a cottage style roof, and not sliding off with a 18' drop.

Older style mixes with some added sand works best.Outside of that, if you really needed to, you could replace sections with cement block or poured cement.As long as the walls are true and not leaning or bulging, then it's just a matter of maintenance on the mortar from time to time.

I have never been a fan of butcher block, but realize its coming back in style so am leaning that way.

I envisioned a neighborhood of 30-40 of these 1920-1940 pier and beam style homes.

I'm guessing they'll look at sewer, parking, traffic, environmental maybe?

I looked at a single story 4/2 ranch style home with a garage that is currently listed at $89.9k, and was originally listed at $100k.