Smart people - if I own 24 buildable lots appraised ~$1.6-1.8 million in total (assessed by town at $1.4M), what do you think is the best way to build out the homes (notionally $300-400K builds/$450-550K sells) and make money: a) putting the least money out of pocket into project, and b) NOT signing on construction loan(s) if possible? 

As and out of state investor it is always smart to build a local team you can trust.

I think it is very smart what you are planning and I believe more people should be thinking like you.

Smart to go meet the team as well.

I think for the average 1 rental owner, it's simply too much fuss, and the opportunity cost of that time and energy is either relaxing, or doing other things to maximize bookings like interior design.I think the industry in general suffers from bombarding new hosts with 10,000 things to do in month 1 (OTA, direct booking sites, linking calendars, specific smart locks, etc.) when in reality most owners should probably list on the most relevant platform for their area in year 1, develop a rhythm and learn a few basics, and then start looking into improvements from there.Certainly with multiple properties it starts to become a more compelling argument.  

I passed both exams first time and I'm not what you would consider "book smart".

There is obviously a formal lease, and we also supplement with a room mate agreement which outlines the more specific things like overnight guests and expectations in dispute resolutions/ cleaning/ care for the home and appliances, etc.I haven't received one formal "LL request" email yet, other than a formal 30 day notice in the event of a move out, which is usually after they've come talked to me in person about it to begin with. if there's an issue, it tends to be pretty limited to "hey, we have this shower rod falling off"... which im usually here to deal with (and tbh most of the time they like to fix it up with me), and it doesnt need to turn into a big thing. as for keys, i have the house on a yale smart lock, so 'handing over keys' is just official move out, walkthrough of the room for damages, and then I can delete their access code and access to the smart home systems without having to re-key the house. 

Sounds smart!

I have been successful in making wise financial decisions by adhering to this approach and avoiding typical mistakes.Work hard, work smart!

To understand your situation better, it's smart to talk to a real estate lawyer who knows Pennsylvania laws.