I have 6 acres under contract to develop a flex business park.

SPACE formerly used for business is considered residence space if...

But you need to show sophistication in business and in investments.They don't want syndicators taking grandma's money she got from her husbands life insurance and it's all the money she has, and she never worked outside the home. 

We've found it has superior reporting features, integration features, and is overall more efficient to work within than other REI-specific software.The downside is QBO is not set up for REI so you'll need to do that or work with an expert to ensure it is set up for your business appropriately.Something else to keep in mind is your entity structure and how your entities file tax returns.

Researched Youtube videos to find ideas (which are not very practical) 3.)

Can only help but is not needed to have a profitable business.

If you're able to talk to the planning department and bring an actual address, that's a great place to start to explore the idea. 

I'm starting to feel saving some towards 20% down payment now would be a good idea as my loans have 8 years left on them and not really a rush to get paid off.  

However, what you are asking for seems reasonable and an excellent idea! 

I work full time (own my own business and can be somewhat flexible) and I am about 3 years from retirement.