For this project we had to wire in two 6 foot grounding rods outside of the property prior to electrical inspection.

In parts of my market, the price per sq foot on the multi-family properties is higher than the single family properties.

Using the retail/MF example, to determine the value of the land for each element, you would need to figure out how many sq. ft. of what type of retail, which would define the land value (per acre or square foot) that could be supported which will be determined by the rents that would be generated against their capitalized value.

2 - For a non-flipper with no connections or bulk jobs, how much should I look to pay to renovate a 1000 square foot 3 BR apartment in that "flip" style that is all over Zillow (floors, bathrooms, paint, etc)?

@James Roberts BINGO!

I just started a new stable position so we now are on solid footing. 

I knew a 3000 square foot house with 5 rooms would be cheaper for me than the standard 3 bedroom 1800 square foot house.

There are a lot of ways to get your foot in the door, it will just take some effort. 

To get my foot in the door I am looking at duplexes in B neighborhoods and/or properties that need some work.

The second is an 1100 sq foot condo in one of the best buildings in town but it has no view while the first unit has a spectacular view, like mind blowing view.