You need to find out what the status is: did this guy buy a "certificate", and if so what needs to Ben ones on get actual clear title.When an investr type guy says "don't have time for it" usually translates to "there's no money to be made".

Does this translate to huge appreciation?  

Yes, I have seen the mechanics and nuts and bolts with a team layout to make your dream work.Sometimes 'the mesage' in any experienced guru/coach has to be translated in a way that is unique to you and at the right time where you are ready to absorb it.   

Which translates into less property needed to replace your income.You might consider using property management or a broker for now, since you're out of the country, then becoming more active when you get back.Lending, whether you mean hard money, buying notes, or partnering has the disadvantage of being lumpy.

However, if I get rents back up to market rates, that would translate to an 8.92% cap rate.

This translates into a bit higher priced than economic data supports.

Grant -Don't take this the wrong way, but that "value" that you mention will in no way translate to increased value of the building.

Rising the floor 6-8" seems a bit too much, current slope should be around 2-3% (translated to a max of ~1.5"-2.0" against the wall/door).4.

The contract will initially be a strategic partnership that will translate into 50/50 ownership of a Series LLC that my Master LLC controls.

Those savings translates to big money if added up.