And via the clustering we are utilizing green-space in a communal manner thus reducing foot-print of that BUT retaining such perception as each unit has walkout to what seems a BIG green space.

@Alecia Loveless is correct--tenants need access 24/7 to their electric service panel, water and heat, assuming those are individual utilities for each unit. 

Or is it better to utilize different strategies?

I’ve heard that this neighborhood doesn’t really have any problems from a social worker but outside areas aren’t good. 3/4 units are currently rented at $900 each, renters pay utilities.

If you’re looking at retrofitting to separate heating for each unit (like furnaces or mini-splits), you might be looking at a higher upfront cost, but it can shift utility expenses to tenants and improve your NOI.I’d factor in boiler age and efficiency when analyzing deals and if it’s near the end of its life, negotiate a price reduction or a credit.

I can only speak regarding structuring the deal as I have not utilized partners personally but it really can be anything that you want.

That's three months of mortgage and utilities, the cost of flooring, and the cost of painting.

I’m looking to connect with experienced spec builders who have utilized hard money lenders, private money, or even grants to fund their projects.

Utilizing my relationship with a great local lender I started the process of getting a secured line of credit set up against the 3 unit so I could pull most of my money back out.

I underestimated utilities in my early years, so I ensure those are properly captured (electricity, gas, water and trash).