I have matriculated and acquired 4 degrees and work the government.

I think it's pretty typical of most cities and suburbs in the US if you don't include certain states like CA.Typically the cheaper a property is, the less desirable it is and the harder it is to find a good tenant but I would say this also varies from location to location considerably.

Graduated two and a half years ago with a degree in econ.

I read that there are several ways to build wealth ( business, investments, etc..) but the best option for me at this point was to pursue a graduate degree while working and my boss would pay for the tuition.

That said, I think I can help orient you in the right direction.The rules vary from municipality to municipality, but typically if your renovation exceeds a certain percentage of the property's value or square footage, it is no longer considered a "nonconforming use," and becomes illegal.

It may take a while to get through the NACA process.In Mass, there is also Mass Housing Finance Authority:  https://www.masshousing.com/portal/server.pt/community/home_buyers/225/loans_for_home_buyersMass Housing have income caps that vary by geography within the state. 

Regulations are going to vary by city, state, county, etc.

I have found some materials that claims it can with stand 500 degrees F, so I might try it on my next project. 

That will help tell you which homes were listed too high.That will help gauge your ARV, but only to a degree.

Prices on piers vary a lot, I've heard anywhere from $150-$600 per pier.