unfortunately, all avenues will be exhausted and you could end up in an asset fat; cash slim situation which is not good for you or family.  

When I am looking for a new contractor, I call all I can in the book, and call other real estate agents and insurance agents if they know of anyone.

I'd try to max out the NACA benefit and should for the highest property value you can. In

Have to buy fat deals to account for inefficiency in the business.

My sister's friend has a pitbull that is obedience trained as well as a certified canine good citizen.

They can get this tenant out quicker then you can in todays COVID environment.From a legal perspective, and I am not a lawyer nor am I giving legal advice, you are in a decent position. 

Once you have a set of plans then you can in parallel start talking with contractors and lenders. 

Relationships in a divorce are fragile and you do not want to be left holding the can in the event of any changes.

From a financing perspective you won't be able to get bank debt unless you or a partner has to net worth to secure one - you will be going the hard money route (aka expensive) but even then we would look at the experience quite seriously and you will need a fat deal.I think people underestimate the permitting process, time, fees, and qualified team you need to actually build a brand new house - and that is just from a permit perspective.

We have had some pretty fat wholesales and a good buyer won't care as long as you are leaving lots of meat on the bone for them as well.