I don't know which nearby state you're considering (PA is probably the most attractive) but local municipalities will sometimes enforce extra red tape and/or protections for tenants beyond the state-norm.

Can I use my current homeowner policy and just increase the limits?

Do you have other ways to decrease your expenses or increase your income aside from real estate? 

Right now, my focus is on leveraging my degree and skills to land a higher-paying job, increase my annual income, and ultimately grow my net worth.Real estate has always been something I’ve been interested in, and my long-term goal is to start investing in both real estate and retirement to build financial security.

Develop your negotiation skills so you can secure better pricing, seller financing, or terms that increase your bottom line.

Slightly increased the offer to quickly go under contract, but still had inspections and everything done before completing the deal.

Why someone willingly wants to work with a government agency that will slow down turnover, dictate rents and rent increases, and dictate repairs is beyond me. 

I am leaning toward removal because the floor is run down, the risk of increased pests or feral cats, and there is already a storage closet off the patio.

Address Your Financial ProfileBridge the Revenue Gap: Highlight your equity in the duplex and use your sale proceeds to demonstrate “skin in the game.”Partner to Compensate Experience: A financially strong and experienced partner can help offset your limited track record.Focus on the Land Deal: Secure the land at a good price, as it’s a crucial step in gaining credibility and attracting partners.Final ThoughtsYou’re entering an exciting and impactful space in real estate development.

Listen to Brandon Turner's podcast where someone he interviewed shared how this made a HUGE increase on her income: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1bS4eL80KL1rWY4vyCMjXh?