To me it seems way less intimidating to think about becoming a real estate developer in those communities rather than LA, SF, Miami, NYC, etc. 

In other words held for steady cash flow.My VARIABLE (note) PORTFOLIO consists of more active/speculative notes - non performing notes I purchased at discount to principal owed; notes I hope to “work” for enhanced ROI, real property I “purchased” with a leaseback option to repurchase, and defaulted notes I purchased planning on eventually taking ownership of the real estate, as well as notes I created that don’t have current payments but provide a guaranteed return plus an equity “kicker” when the property is sold. 

We want to use proceeds from our flips here in Central Oregon to acquire and eventually pay off properties in a more affordable market.

Is this something I can do without a development background?

🔥DEVELOPMENT UPDATE- GASTONIA 🔥📍 FUSE District (Franklin Urban Sports and Entertainment District) is transforming Gastonia with new residential, commercial, and entertainment spaces!

We are not business people so how to develop a business plan and all the stuff that needs to go into the prep we are at a lost   Business plan?

The School of Hard Knocks is the best education, but if your company will pay for it, I would go with an MBA for future (non-RE) career development.

Build to rent development is a great strategy.

For the community development dept, you'll need proper plans (architect), site survey, permits, etc. when you're ready. 

Are you planning on eventually selling them as condos?