Also spell out as much detail as possible in your scope of work with the contractor, you cannot assume that they are thinking the same thing as you when it comes to finishes and material choices.  

As far as the other property, my ultimate desire is to build a duplex for rent. 

Start with BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide (free).

Start with BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide (free).

Guests have more choices due to this over saturation so it’s harder for Hosts to stand out.  

3 Steps To Take Immediate Action:1) Set small, short-term goals (establishing a one-year, three-year, five-year goal has helped me tremendously)2) Seek help from people smarter than you (I am never shy to ask questions, even the stupidest ones)3) You grow through what you go through (We will make mistakes along the way and that is ultimately what will help us become better investors)

Out-of-state investing is a top choice.

They should have clearly communicated to you what work required permits and that they could get those or not but the choice would be yours and that you would bear the cost implications either way.

Ultimately, the only rental that went to a visiting nurse was for 2 months at half what I normally charge.

Still not sure it makes sense, but worth a look.If you want to be green, just buy a green energy plan from your electric provider if you have a choice of providers/plans.