Hello JC,I am not an expert in DC specific zoning but I have a lot of experience with the zoning code in Charlottesville VA. 

There are benefits to using the LLC, holding company, or trust, but they all come with costs and add complexity to your life that is often unwarranted.

218K seems a little low for the area.

Building a structure from the ground up, since you need to build/create foundation, can be difficult. 

It seems like it basically up to you to do the math on how much more you will potentially make selling each unit individually and then deciding if that extra $$$ is worth the number of extra hours you will spend.

Here are a few suggestions on how you can maximize the wealth of information available: Check out the blogs and podcasts, or take advantage of the search feature (magnifying glass).

is that it typically comes with higher rates on the first mortgage, if you're low income enough you might qualify for near free DPA but most DPA's open to all income brackets are typically at higher than market interest rates.

The forums are the best place to learn anything in real estate you can think of. 

If you consistently analyze properties, recognizing a good deal will be much easier when it shows up.

If we are not the right company for you, we may know someone that is.