@Jonathan Greene, @Peter Mckernan, @Zachary DealThank you all for your insights this is super helpful and I appreciate the responses.

RE's super power is equity over time.

This was super eye opening as someone planning to build an ADU in Orange County, CA.

sorry if is stupid question Yes.Another strategy is you could inform him to contact the super for any issues and ignore further communication from him directly. 

Also, any advice for avoiding those unexpected surprises (or at least making them less painful) would be super appreciated.

And then do it again.It is actually possible to have a super experienced General Contractor, a very deep pockets money partner, and still lose money on a flip.The most common reason, in my experience, is having a project run over schedule and placing the property on the market during the off-season.

Then, if you are comfortable, only buy with money that you can lose without being devastated. 

Your tother end can be in a sling super quick  

You should consider skipping college and getting your real estate license if you are super serious about the industry!

@James Mc Ree, this was super helpful.