While I haven't done new construction as an investor, I've been involved with them on the design and construction side. $15-$20,000 seems like a very small profit on a $500,000 house.

So really, no need for him to answer in his eyes.  

Build a solid foundation before taking a step up - each and every step of the way.There’s a way to scale recklessly and there is a way to scale safely.When OPM is involved safe is way better than reckless.Despite a life long career in RE, I scaled as followsBought a few duplexes for my own accountBought a fourplex for my own accountBought 12 units as a JV with some friendsSyndicated 43 unitsSyndicated 30 unitsBought another 12 units as a JVSyndicated 281 unitsThis was over a 3 or 4 year period.and so forth - now I am GP in close to 1000 units with $125M AUM.Even with all that, my sweet spot is 30 to 50 unit properties - they work best for my partners and I and more importantly our investors. 

The title attorney involved had open communication with all parties on this and an addendum was added to the contract stating this.   

I hope it works out for all involved.  

MFDUs in high-demand areas like Asheville might be limited, but it’s worth keeping an eye out for smaller duplexes or triplexes that align with your budget.If neither works, continuing to rent while buying a pure investment property in a more affordable nearby market could make sense.

Kentucky is definitely capturing the eyes of manufacturing!

If a trainer won't do that, and if a guaranteed property isn't involved, it goes nowhere. 

It involves much more than collecting rent or throwing up a Craigslist ad every blue moon.

what about columbia is catching your eye?