A tagline used on some other forums I visit is "patience and persistence will overcome most obstacles."  

, and if not, what compelling advantage do you have to successfully do new sub-A Class construction to overcome the barriers that others see?

Look at your sales script, and see where there might be some mention of only one buyer.The objection can probably be overcome with a simple "There can be only one buyer for your property, and he's sitting right here in front of you?"

(If so, there are certain time restrictions that have to be overcome.)

I've learned that sometimes you have to get creative when obstacles come up so it's good to you being able to overcome a rough moment and triumph.

Not just a capable firm with the creative and technical skill, the design shop also has the experience to ease its way the tricky approval process, overcoming numerous hurdles along the way.  

The worst thing is I have about 50% of the down payment already.Tell me what you think, is this smart, stupid, are there creative ways to overcome this?

MINDSETYou need to retrain your brain and change perspective on the filter through which you are viewing things.We all have obstacles to overcome and many of us started from nothing.

If you were me and wanted to try to overcome the skepticism and build those relationships with the city.. where would you start for education?

I know taking the first step can be the scariest, but if you keep at it, overcome obstacles, and keep your eye on the math, you'll do great!