Depending on your new job as a 1099/self employed, there are likely other loan options available that can work.

I think in that manner, you get some pretty cool people moving in and less "black rock, mega corp" style development projects.

I have from time to time spoken with the city administrator, economic developer, & a person at building planning commission.

I recently attended a webinar, Master your Rentals: Save Money and Time with effective Self-management.  

Is it possible to have denser development?

Out of these areas, Franklinton and Linden are seeing some of the most developments.

They specialized in concrete tilt up, but did a lot of time and materials work for a self made real estate tycoon who owned a lot of Federal Way.Along the way I got my CPA license and practiced in several differing sectors including doing some work with low income housing projects.As far as my start in RE, it was with buying my first personal SFR and later moving to a new residence. 

Agricultural land and property suitable for residential development seem like safe options to me.

Glad to hear that you are using Equity Trust already as they happen to be our official partner for self directed IRAs. :) It sounds like you are looking for a specific investment opportunity? 

To me it seems way less intimidating to think about becoming a real estate developer in those communities rather than LA, SF, Miami, NYC, etc.