Looking at new builds (brand new or recent), vetted for major repairs (there will be none presumably, some have a builders' warranty), that I will potentially own for 10-ish years. 

.- Investment Lock-Up: While there’s a chance your funds could be tied up for a bit, if the property is well-designed and in a desirable area, you might see appreciation that allows for refinancing sooner than you think.Buying an existing property:- Less Risk: Existing properties come with a track record, so you can analyze their performance and potential more easily.

My vacation rental performed really well during tourist season, then poorly for the other 6-7 months.

With a brand new W-2 job in a different trade/profession, you may need to be in that new job for 6 months.  

its crazy you have section 8 projects . and the ICE housing is brand new or almost new luxury hotels :)

Analyzing marketing materials can offer insights into their branding and market positioning.

For example a DSCR (debt service coverage ratio) type loan looks at how a rental performs to determine how it qualifies for a mortgage.

Generally speaking self-performing construction can be wise if you are an experienced builder.

I'd have to plan around that in case I have to front the rent due to poor performing rentals. 

My property performance is way below what AirDNA would estimate so I am trying to do some investigation on my own.