It's also nice because we can upload invoices, quotes, drawings, permits, etc all to the individual project we create.

There are no restrictions on foreign property ownership in Portugal and transaction costs are generally low.Portugal will grant a 5-year residency permit to non-EU citizens through Real estate investment (the program is called Golden Visas, look it up).

Fix-and-flip or builder’s risk insurance should be in place before work begins, and confirm your contractor obtains all necessary permits to avoid delays.

Been getting nowhere with zoning laws found online and in the local library for Yonkers (in westchester county) as to whether any permits are needed in order to operate such a business. 

IMHOThere are more international students staying, I've seen it where I work (at a university), but many of the newcomers are not students and a country our size can't handle that many people in a relatively short period of time. 

The main property will be my primary residence.My biggest question is, what kind of foundation would you use, (that is to code and will pass inspection/permits in Charlottesville) that is either relatively easy DIY or cheap to outsource.

Good thing is they don't have rules about the interior remodeling (except the regular county permitting process).

Annual "Permit Fee" of $42 annually for 2025... any insight appreciated.

No architect drawings, no permit fees.  

We aren't talking about appraisals and permitting here.