It is corrosive and not good for lawns/plants so use only what you need.

That's a standard arrangement for lenders who have volume.Gotta understand that most of the title plants are locally owned businesses.

I recently gutted an entire house which included new drywall, texture, paint, doors, windows, cabinets, granite counter tops, vanities, flooring, fixtures, and appliances as well as restructuring an exterior wall with two sliding glass doors which was all done for $34K.If this is a high-end property, then I believe your estimate may be correct.

(Stop laughing with the visual I just planted in your head)

. -  I would definitely say to first just plant the seed, which it seems that you have done. 

If it is that textured plaster I wouldn't think it would cost as much.

People painting and planting flowers tend to want to stay long term.

However, buying in a personal name can also provide some liability protection(contact a lawyer on what they are) if you have insurance.3) if you guys plant to acquire the properties using financing - You guys should communicate with multiple lenders and tell them your situation and see if they will lend to you.

I have some funds planted in an S&P 500 fund but with my horizon being early 2020 I am getting a little weary about losing principle especially with so much fluctuation in the market. 

I've personally made the decision to stay in the state as it has higher wages and my roots are already planted family-wise.