I doubt that any serious lender is going to lend you construction funds in second position behind your mom's purchase-money lien on a distressed property.

Larger cities offer better infrastructure, such as international airports, interstate highways, and a broader talent pool, making them attractive to businesses and tenants.Avoid Rent ControlRent control laws can hinder your ability to adjust rents to match inflation, limit tenant screening, and complicate evictions.

My goal is to build a business that serves corporate clients; construction and infrastructure development teams, medical/education faculty, corporate relocation, family emergency relocation services, sports travel/events,corporate and industryand I want to learn from those of you who are doing this successfully and are willing to share actionable ideas for how I can be successful in offering value to these groups.Thank you!!

It may make sense to save a bit more and invest from a position of power.Keep in mind most helocs are adjustable.

Tell the lender you want a construction loan online of credit.  

We are looking for low maintenance (so primarily new construction or >2000 and well maintained/rennovated) single family homes.

Then adjust based on both your and their view of the world.  

For C to B-Larger developments announced nearby-Increased activity in new construction-Building of commercial retail in or near the neighborhood. 

The current costs of construction are so high that you can just find more bang for your buck buying as opposed to building.

I recommend you do this annually to adjust for utility increases and other variables.