suggestions?

There are many good locations - I'd suggest that you play around with the "Market Finder" tool at the top of the screen here, included with your pro membership. 

Would you suggest subdividing the property, building a single house, or building multiple cottages/ tiny homes?

Look for your states offer to purchase contract online or contact a realtor to get a blank copy. review the agreement to be sure assignment is not expressly excluded. if there is nothing excluding assignment from the contract then writing the words "/And or Assigns" after the name or company's name on the buyer's line should be sufficient.Good luck!

Are there providers you have worked with that you might suggest? 

Thinking you can identify scammers by speaking to them or reading reviews is naïve.

Good on your friend for suggesting house hacking a duplex.

What methods would you suggest to screen potential tenants? 

Looking for thoughts and suggestions on how to utilize these new funds for real estate investing.

The best way to approach these types of groups or if anyone knew of any they could suggest.