This means if I ever have a problem I can call and talk to people right away instead of AI chatbots that I get at my national banks.

Although some people eventually put their house hack into an LLC or trust.

Though it doesn't make sense, it's the reality today.

Most people use LLC for liability and asset protection, not necessarily tax benefit. 

You could ask them if you could start with the process-ie have a builder look at the property (with the owner okaying when you do it to avoid problems with people currently there), come up with plans, so you can start as early in the new year as possible.

I've gotten the current infill lots by word of mouth, wholesalers, and people coming up to the build site asking if we'd like to buy their lots.

You could have a few things driving the cost:-Location - if the house is more remote the contractor will have higher costs to get out there (gas, lodging, limited resources) or if you are using a local guy he might be higher because he knows there are fewer competitors -El Nino - the roofers we use are all busy because people are rushing to get work done before the rains hit.  

However, not many people are eager to do that.Once you’ve established your budget and your level of comfort with sacrifices, buy the best deal in your market.

I've done this with my properties because I'm well known in my small town and don't want people to know what I own.LEGAL PROTECTION: By placing your assets in an LLC, you are legally separating them from your personal assets.

I do know of some builders and lenders in the area that are organizing to create solutions for people who are stuck because a builder can't finish the job.