Any advice on managing this situation, reducing costs, or navigating the permit process would be greatly appreciated.

Here are some simpler tips to make your process smoother and less stressful:Make a Rule Book: Make sure you screen everyone the same way.

You can do it yourself; the process isn't terribly complicated and doesn't require much technical skill, but it is a lot of physical labor, and you'll probably want to get friends to help.

If you can find a good team while you're there, and you know you can complete the renovation or flipping process while you're there, I would say go for it.

Still in process.

I try to be smart, I don't listen to others, I listen to data, evidence, the signs of the universe.My model I truly believe is the best thing to do!

Of course, and we were already in the process of doing it.But we wanted to go faster and build it TODAY, not kick tires and experiment for a year.

Some pros with turnkey: you don’t have to source deals, no rehabbing, streamlined process, fully rehabbed property(with the good companies), some can come with tenants in place cash flowing from purchase. 

I'm in the process of buying a single-family house to renovate and flip in the next few years but I'm always looking for deals and/or other investors to connect with.

I own small amount of RE already so I’m familiar with process.