I am looking to possibly buy a lot in Eagle Rock. 

Are they doing everything they can to expose properties to the widest possible market?

I just returned from a trip to Detroit to analyze a list of properties for the Wayne County auctions happening this September. However, I have apparently missed the deadline to submit a deposit and I'm kicking myself ...

@Anthony Dupre depends on the lender. one possible way to avoid due on sale is to time it with Refi.

Most people want out as fast as possible.  

For amount, it would likely be in the $500-700k range.My expectations are to have a negative cash flow while living there, and possibly a slight negative cash flow after moving out (until interest rates lower or rents increase).

Put the capital in a low-risk instrument (CD, t-bill) that will preserve as much capital as possible even while making your mandatory (5%?)

I would like to house hack a property in the city or perhaps just outside the city instead of paying thousands of dollars paying rent with nothing to show for at the end of the year.That being said, is house hacking possible in New York City, and if so, do you have any advice on how to go about the process?

It's possible the engineer is agreeing to take on the ENTIRE development process and manage the entire development of the project but that would need to be clearly defined in the roles and responsibilities of the development partnership. 

I will treat a witness as a trespasser.I want to really emphasize that this lady is a major headache and may have mental issues.It is possible she has been fired from her job as well.