With that being said, since there are so many variables that exactly why a property owner would be shooting themselves in the foot if they set an asking price b/c their idea of what the highest and best use might be might not actually be the actual best use. 

Bingo DOS.#7 How about homestead exemption for taxes? 

It costs a bit more but worth looking at it especially for areas with higher foot traffic. 

There is a 3 foot drop from my yard down to the hookup.

Building new sounds great, but it's usually way more expensive per square foot when you factor in land, materials, labor, and permits.

Looking at your room that 3 foot 7 bump out would fit a desk or dresser unless it is a closet.

if you can build at 50% of after value I'd hire you and I build the cheapest of anyone I know in our market and minimum rates. there's 3 builders that build at our rate. only place I can get us to 50% equity is in miami florida and that is new construction that is selling at $1000 per square foot and up and high density 300+ unit underwriting with incredible economies of scale. columbus has lower construction costs but lower exit. we focus on urban core. my best suggestion is look at urban not suburban for higher valuations. you can't control what new construction appraises at so do it in less risky areas. 

@Chelsea CowgurStarting services in about a week and footings for the first 7 units right after.Excited to get started!

As others mentions, unless you go into corporate where an MBA is the foot in the door you may need for some positions.You can pick everything an MBA program teaches you from YouTube.

In the Name of Jesus Christ, may He guide you out of this horrid pickle of a mess and get you back on the right footing with a far stronger support team!