It would be wise to talk to an Architect about this. 

There may be other parts of the process as well: site plan approval, for example.2) depending on the answers the building dept. gives you, you may have to hire an architect or lic. professional engineer to prepare plans.3) You may need the services of a licensed builder, electrician, plumber.I hope this works out well for you!

Because the owners and architects wanted everything hand-framed.

There are obviously a lot of upfront costs in development, between land acquisition, architects, insurance, zoning and variance applications and approvals, legal costs, etc. 

I would recommend talking with an Architect who is familiar with the zoning requirements to help you prepare your permit package. 

You could speak with an architect to discuss the feasibility of the project first.

I have asked lot's of structural engineers and architects about that wall in the back and often it is there to brace the "shear" load.

Get a local architect or engineer to assess.

A bit about myself, I'm a licensed in architect in Hawaii (also licensed in Colorado and with reciprocity to work in all 50 states) with 27+ years experience and owner of my own sole proprietorship firm for the past 15 years.  

Our plan is to buy and hold good cash flowing properties and use my wife's skillset as an architect/designer to flip other properties.