Devin,Just a warning about checkbook IRAs: Self Dealing Activities will get your entire IRA disallowed and you will have to pay the tax on all your money.Self Dealing Activities are frighteningly easy to do.Do a Copilot search for "Problems with checkbook IRA plans."

I plan on doing long distance investing since I’ll be deploying to Japan soon! 

My plan is to use a first-time buyer's loan program, live in the property for a year, and then turn it into a rental property.

If I self manage(which was what I was planning) it could turn out a big headache) there are a lot of condos for sale which is a bit alarming as well.I would be self managing from California so that’s long distance management and may consist of many flights taking care of any necessities.Why can’t this be an easier decision lol good luck!

For a local PE to look at the plans, size the beam properly, and even draw a few connection details (the most important piece) you're probably looking at $500-$800.

My plans are to bid and if won, would like to wholesale (flip).

Where do you plan to acquire most of your investment properties? 

I've built one for a theatre before, if you're handy I got most of plans from this site.

I think this will not be popular with some tenants as they aren't planning that far ahead? 

Trying to avoid having too many transitions in carpet to hardwood/vinyl flooring and plan on doing LVP throughout the entire unit, bedrooms and bathroom included.