-Site work: typically $10K is a good number to start with, which includes preparing the building pad, connecting utilities, plus a small amount of landscape and concrete work.Other costs (not typically required): Additional structural engineering, Civil engineering, Soils engineeringAlso, the cost would be around $75K for a standard garage conversion project of about 400 sqft....$8-10K for plans/design/engineering, $3-5K permits/fees, rest construction costs.

@Chelsea John-Williams Instead of a weight limit, I typically advertise potentially pet-friendly rentals as "pets determined on a per case basis".All other qualifiers being equal I'd much rather have an older 60lb mild mannered dog than a 25lb yapping, high strung, unhousebroken puppy.Pet fees/deposits are generally whatever the market will bear.

Ave home prices are reasonable in the area and the market doesn't seem to be overpriced  like the Big bear/Lake Arrowhead area. 

Another option is Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead Area, and lastly further near Yosemite and Sequoia National forest which is very seasonal market.  

This bank does not have any interest bearing account that I can move it into within my SDIRA temporarily.

Adjust up or down for your own variables and your bear/bull case. 

Definitely agree on the large risk of bearing all the reno + holding costs. 

I work in Banning CA. at the base of some great mountain towns like Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, etc.. and would be willing to commute since my job is somewhat flexible.

Which is a great soil and a green land for Real Estate investors who are seeking to create a passive income, Airbnbs, and flips.

A perc (percolation) test is to see if the natural soil works for a septic field....has nothing to do with environmental issues, but could be a financial killer for a lot of lots.