I love this architects designs for cottages and pocket neighborhoods, but this concept is something entirely different.

He has lived here his entire life, and knows the area very well, and he is a general contractor and has been remodeling homes in our area for 20 years.

These are two entirely different worlds that need two completely different skill sets to effectively manage.

However, if the FHA interest rate is lower, I would still go that route and if rates drop refinance  however keep in mind FHA has PMI for life  Here you go FHA has the self sustaining requirement that requires the three non owner occupied  units to cover the entire PITI which with 3.5% or 5% down is virtually impossible with today's interest rates and price level.

Focusing on connecting with as many people as possible and looking at plenty of deals. 

I'm not sure at this point if I'd like to sell the entire property as a whole when I'm finished, or sell each unit as a condo,or even keep the most or all units to rent. 

Possibly.

After that, the lender may use a private auctioneer to auction off the property and try to recoup as much money as possible.

AE zoning may possibly reduce your buyer pool, but if comps show strong demand and the house stayed dry and didn't flood during Hurricane Milton, that’s a good sign.

When you have a real state license you have access to MlS and  that gives you the opportunity to see possible deals before those who don't have access.