We are considering building and holding townhomes but need to determine the costs.  

@Jay HinrichsI try to avoid historic districts at all costs.

Hi Chris, As financing costs will be a big factor in determining profitability, you should be asking HMLs for proposals to fund. 

And that depends on how you view the costs. 

To estimate expenses, consider setting aside a percentage for management fees, plus costs for cleaning and utilities.

Ask an attorney for the cost breakdown, factor in holding costs, assume they'll do more damage on the way out and then ask for a bit more for the headache.But again, especially with no experience with evictions and it sounding like a mess, I would be very tempted to just walk if the tenant is not going to cooperate. 

Given the latter costs, a corporation can be the best solution only if you buy multiple properties.

However, while I was still getting contractor bids for different projects, I found 3 different companies that are quick (based off of their contracts and guarantees) and have good quality of work (based off of previous and current investor feedback) but come at the cost of price.

It cost me $8500 in my HCOL to get the electric separated on a 3 unit.

Some even offer preferred interest rates as low as 5.75% at no cost to you.