Any way around paying the very high property tax, school tax etc. in SC?  

Take your inspection checklist and have the contractor complete the work he's already been paid for, make that part of the mediation.2.

Congrats on the purchase.

I imagine there may be steps to take with the city upfront to determine if in fact the ground on the lot can be built on, but some general guidance or tips on best place to start and what to expect throughout the new construction process in Buffalo.

The size of the house is 3500 sqft, single story, and only a 4/3, and rather small at that BR/BA count for the neighborhood. 

My two bedroom is currently being rented out for 1900 and the training is coming in the spring.  

You'll have all amortization options, but the most common will be 30 year fixed and that's generally the recommended one. 

If the lender is licensed in the state you're buying in, then they can do the loan.

Do a search for Background Checks on the Passive Pockets site.

Hello @Korinne Coleman & welcome to the BP family!