They might permit owner occupants with a good credit history for a few years.

Census Bureau: Building Permits Survey (BPS)The purpose of the Building Permits Survey (BPS) is to provide national, state, and local statistics on the number and valuation of new privately-owned housing units authorized by building permits in the United States.

Most areas in Southeast are $50-$150Yes a GC will get all the inspections you need for a Certificate of completion then the tenants will build out the space and get their own permits and CO when their done.

Some localities require a building permit for a new single-family dwelling/duplex.

These ‘inspectors’ typically issue infractions on items that requires a landlord to pull permits for no good reason.It’s not fair. 

No permits were drawn for this structural work as required by california building code.Further investigation of the foundation leads to $65,000 worth of work needed, with engineering required to be warranties for life. 

IE if you have permits for STR  or just renting them out..

How will a newcomer like me get started now?

I just got hit with reassessment with Franklin county, basically any time permits are pulled it will trigger assessment.  

If you are considering making any renovations to the property your permits would be the jurisdiction of the County instead of the City/Village which can be a blessing or a curse depending on the location...