When trying to figure out the maximum square footage allowed, do I multiply the FAR by the lot size after having subtracted the required yard setbacks?

I don't really like the awkward almost negative responses since in real estate there is no template it's completely up to you how far you go is based on how fast you move divided by your dedication multiplied by your ambition.  

Multiply the current amount by 2.

We are in a dual agency representation with the real estate agent and she was pretty forthright about how she valued the property - it is basically based on one lot comp in the same town from april, she multiplied that x2 (the lot is a bit over twice the size of the other lot that sold recently) - there have been no sales of land since then and the closest one before that was a full year ago.

Our goal is also to build a portfolio of properties in our city to be able to provide housing for folks that we come into contact with through our non-profits.On the other hand, I also participate in syndication deals with my network of investors bc I find it to be a great strategy for investors looking for solid passive income and a relatively easy way to multiply their money.

That might not be the case as even experienced Sponsor are having a hard time finding suitable deals.Also, the true measure of wealth creation is the equity multiplier which has an inverse relationship with the IRR.

Depending on the amount of your profit and the size of the down payment you could simply do the 1031 on the cash you received and take the note as boot.In the right circumstances if you've got access to cash doing a 1031 combined with owner financing can be a great way to multiply your cash flow while deferring a lot of tax.

Then multiply by 70% and that number will be the most any investor will purchase that property for.On your blog post "how to find comps and calculate ARV" you talk about assigning a dollar amount to every feature. 

For interior paint I'll use a price per sq. ft. multiplier.

One CAN figure out approximately how much a property sold for even if it's not listed in the records:  extrapolate the transfer taxes (state/county/city) and multiply out.Just an aside:  I remember back in the day when the appraisals were coming in short in an appreciating market (something like we have today) we would ask the buyer to pay MORE money for the transfer taxes (no law about not paying more taxes) and it would help show a higher "sales" price and help 'push' up the comps--not recommending you do that now--much more data available for all eyes.But I would recommend that you buddy up with a like-minded realtor, and work out a mutually beneficial arrangement so you can get the info you need, and they can get listings, sales, referrals, etc, that they need.Better yet, get licensed yourself and get to know the business from the inside out!