Are most of those gurus just selling courses/cutting a fee on top of an agent?

Of course, my focus is veterans so I may be biased. 

They typically provide education and also have classes/courses to take.

I download those into Geo Batchcode so I can plan an efficient route to check out those properties, and of course I take note of any others of interest that I see along the way.  

I know of some folks in KC and Memphis doing new builds like this, but they are doing it within a much larger and long-term project that includes upwards of 300-500 units built over the course of 5-10 years.Assuming you're looking in Columbia, do you have a "B+/C" neighborhood in mind?

Private money lenders or construction loan specialists, on the other hand, are faster and more flexible, though their rates and terms will likely be less favorableFor a more rural area, local banks will almost certainly understand the market better, but connecting with private lenders who specialize in spec homes could provide more agility.

That has informed us for this year's trip, and we'll be staying in Langosta/Tamarindo, Potrero/Flamingo, and Hermosa (Guanacaste not Jaco).Of course, there are tons of beautiful places in CR, and the better climate (read: less hot) is found at higher elevations. 

So a room used for laundry that is 100 sq ft (quite common) costs the owner about $72,000 over the course of a decade (in today's dollars). 

These LOCs are typically interest only and adjustable rate, which of course is planned for, again with the equity and the cash flow of the investment, it shouldnt be a problem to at the very least break even, even in the worst of scenarios.

The primary goal is appreciation adding value building equity and therefore net worth.I’ve been at this “game” 46 years  and there is no magic bullet.It takes time, discipline and consistent effort.But it can be done in 10 years.Of course this means living below one’s means - ie spend less than they make - to develop and build cash and capital that can be invested and then watch ot grow over time.Hope this helps.Arn