I know it needs a few things (bathroom size) revised to make it code compliant, and I will need an architect to help navigate zoning (another thing we don't do in Houston :D), site plans, elevation aesthetics and local requirements. 

Locations depend on size of investment.

As soon as you bump up to medium sized multifamily, costs can add up quick.

Hello Jean-Marie,I see that you plan to use full sized beds. 

Being successful as an absentee owner of a small or even mid size business is close to impossible.  

@Hamidou Keita Detroit is one of the best cities in the Midwest for investors, see chart below:Regarding, your first property, we've helped many OOS investors get started in Detroit with our logical approach to invest wisely and avoid critical mistakes.

This means designing with the size/length of all materials in mind.2 - Don't make design decisions based on what you want, or what you would live in. 

(e.g. condition, location, size)2) The marketing / sales procedures are inadequate (e.g. no advertising, unresponsive manager)3) The asking rent is too highThe reasons a house won't sell quickly are similar.  

construction loans are very convenient to use that are hard money style . is it going to be a stick built just smaller in size or an actual cabin ? 

Like for me I have a business I enjoy that produces active income I don't see myself stepping out of anytime soon, so I am prioritizing the nicer areas/properties that might not cash flow as much right now but will in the future and provide me with good depreciation to offset active income right now.Just such a personalized thing that doesn't have a one size fits all approach.