This is fair enough but when the income of the people transacting real estate has not changed to a considerable degree, it starts to feel unfair and you start to get push back. 

Or is it more due to the stereotypes around people on Section 8/the other tenants are paying a considerably lower amount every month?

Waiting a year might not be a bad idea versus pulling the trigger sooner and having to pay to refinance later.Also realize it may be tough starting off as a 17 year old.  

I believe the play is to either improve the existing building and raise rents or the zoning allows for apartment buildings and the lot is considerably big, so maybe build new.

You need to make sure the policy/coverage you get is designed for this use and not a standard homeownes policy.The Lawyer and the town can give you an idea of the Modifications you may be required to make due to:- ADA compliance- Fire Code Compliance- other Laws/Ordiances that may be triggered when you move away from a Residential to a Commercial exposure

Tax benefits can help make a better business deal, but a bad business deal is hardly ever going to break even just because of tax benefits.The other big consideration you should have, in order to actually benefit from real estate fueled losses or credits, it will require a substantial investment of time - either to get over the material participation thresholds for short term rentals, or to get over the real estate professional thresholds for mid term /  traditional rentals. 

Any other considerations?

Investing in New Builds: Considerations and ProcessNew Build Investment Options:Build and Sell (Fix and Flip):Pros: Potential for high profits with modern appeal.Cons: Requires significant upfront investment and market risks.Build and Hold (Long-term Rental):Pros: Attracts quality tenants, potential for higher rental income.Cons: High initial costs, market fluctuations.Process Overview:Market Research: Identify high-demand areas.Land Acquisition: Purchase suitable land.Design and Planning: Work with architects and obtain permits.Construction: Oversee build quality and manage costs.Marketing (Fix and Flip): Highlight new features to attract buyers.Tenant Management (Rental): Implement thorough screening processes.Advice:Educate Yourself: Understand local regulations and market dynamics.Risk Management: Prepare for potential delays and cost overruns.If you have any other questions/just want to discuss feel free to reach out to me directly!

Too many times new investors are focused on their most immediate needs and fail to take into consideration how certain relationships can help them in the future.

We feel like this gives us a pretty good background to start, but by no means do we think we know everything we need to yet.The area around UCF has improved quite a bit in the last 10 years and home prices have risen considerably, but it seems like there are still some promising areas to find deals.