But when you are really ready to get going, you would engage a civil engineer and/or an architec, and eventually a general contractor/builder.

Get a no-cost estimate for an engineering-based cost segregation study on every investment property you own over $250K in purchase price.

It revs up your investment engine!​

Now I am in the early stages of development.I am working with a consulting firm to help with a concept plan, engineering, and to get the city to sign off on everything.

Based on the value of a property you can likely get away with a inexpensive desk top study such as condos and you will require a more comprehensive engineering study for larger properties like a 4plex.Desktop / modeling options are sometimes good for smaller residential like you mention. 

I'm a full-time active real estate investor (former engineer) in Edmonton with 32 doors, and another 24 under contract.

It would be overwhelming to pay for advanced training in a high-performance, sophisticated, multi-engine fighter jet when you're still trying to land the airplane safely.

Once we have platted lots all engineering details are done . 

Condos are starting to get condemned, which means people are having to vacate units.I'm telling you right now, I'm a JD (not a practicing attorney) in Florida whose business is being an insurance expert for carriers, working with engineers. 

A college student getting an engineering degree should consider different approaches, even if he decides to deploy some/all of the inheritance in real estate, than a high school dropout working a minimum wage job.