Though the property and surrounding areas look nice in the pictures, the doors and windows has bars which concern me.I am just starting our my RE investment journey and all help is greatly appreciated.

Unfortunately, I tend to agree that they really are not concerned with whether or not you have to cancel bookings. 

Why I am leery of these "creative" things for people with little to no money One of the concerns of going to fast is over extending beyond their resources. 

My concern is whether the city could deny permits for these modifications, such as removing walls or converting a garage, or if they are mainly just concerned with safety and habitability.

Private money won’t take it because if I can’t refi it out they won’t get their $ back and I can’t ask my investors to do the same for the same concern.

However, as a developer, what would I need to know when looking for land as it pertains to detention requirements?

I appreciate and welcome any thoughts, concerns, or ideas!

My concern with the home equity loan strategy is I'd still have the first home mortgage, the equity loan, and a new mortgage (albeit reduced from the down payment).

A concern, however, if we do a sale, is with the price, as I understand that if I sell at too low a price (say, $200K, give or take a few thousand to pay off my current mortgage), the IRS could assess a tax on my parents if the price is more than 25% below market value. 

I’m mainly concerned about the rate change happening without prior notice, especially since both loans started and are closing on the same day.I’m scheduled to sign tomorrow and close on Friday.