Basically, do you understand "Odds". 

Even at $60,000 a unit - that is a $1.2 million deal... and realistically I bet they will be over $100,000 each... all just a guess... but when you get into these price points and you are "new to real estate" as your title in your post suggests - I think you are probably getting in over your head for a first deal.  

I'm 25k out of pocket for permits and clearing.I bet the pre-permitted 10 contiguous lots on the river would appraise for at least 150k.Am i being overly optimistic?

I edge my odds by not allowing 1) last minute check-ins (must be at least 2 days in advance) 2) No 1 night stays (eliminates partiers) 3) Must have previous good reviews.These will vette 99% of your guests adequately....

It just seems odd to me.

Oddly, they both really didnt like eachother, but this contracter brought in money and the addict was, well, an addict.

To me, if you aren't at least maintaining 0 cash flow, you're betting too much on appreciation to the investment work. 

Seems odd I cannot get a response this time, I even called there number and it goes to a woman's voicemail?

The whole thing seems odd, some people aren't great at responding to leads.

I work a lot with investors outside of the US from a tax perspective but from a mortgage perspective, as mentioned above hard money or DSCR is probably your best bet.