The location is ideal, as it’s situated in a neighborhood that permits short-term rentals (STRs), making it a great investment opportunity.

It is quite rural and it is much easier to get a permit for these sorts of things if you even need one.

Duplex have different zoning that may permit additional units.

Legal Implications & Ramifications : As an example; the iconic PCH homes in Malibu and many in the upper foothills might not permitted to build back, certainly not to the same extent or materials.

all materials, all labor costs to others, Not you, utilities, interest payments, permits, licenses, auto/truck expenses, tools needed are all deductable. 

They just passed another conservation ordinance for rural, and if you want to even add an addition to your property within LG city limits you've got to cough up 10k for the general permit alone. 

HvAC guys, plumbers and electricians are busy but licensed so no huge risk especially if you pull permits and have work inspected.

Employment Growth Outpacing Housing SupplyBuffalo leads the nation in the ratio of new jobs to new homes permitted.

However, I will always contact the owner as soon as time permits.

As an example, we decided to replace the windows in a house we were renovating and ended up costing us $50,000 extra because we got into issues with permitting and suddenly found ourselves having to hire an architect, speciality contractors, etc.