It's probably the best way to get started and learn what it's like to own properties while gaining equity and limiting your living expenses.

The short answer is that the longer you live in it the more gain will disappear. 

Your development deal will look much like a flip in the eyes of the IRS since it is 6-9 months as well you'll have the short-term side of taxes, not the capital gains taxing on it.  

Extra income by renting and the benefits of appreciation.

A couple of my clients bought land in Georgetown three years ago when no one paid attention to it; now, they're sitting on equity gains of nearly 40%.

Have also done work in DC and Maryland and would say Virginia has significant benefits over DC and Maryland because it is more business friendly and jurisdictions are willing to work with not against developers on projects I mentioned as well as you mentioned With the federal government and government contractors not going away - area is great for investment.

Starting small through house hacking, long-term rentals, or flipping helped me gain experience without taking on too much risk.

If you can get hold of a reliable and honest builder, you will be fine (that does not mean you will not go over budget).Low CapEx, Little Hassle, Quality Tenant, You can manage new construction out of state for the first 5-years, Tenant May Stay longer (because is a brand new house) are few benefits of new construction.You may not be able to get close to the 1% rule though.Goodluck

It is very important that you need to know as well as be familiar on the rules of the 1031 exchange if you want to have this for your own benefit as an investor.

I hope your middle finger behaved as you left the building for the very last time ;-)On a serious note, with the experience you gained on your journey, can you tell us your Top 3 do's and don't as one tries to accumulate RE.