We do a lot of work in flood zones and from what I've heard regarding "stilts"(we call them pilings) is you're looking at 20-30k extra over a traditional slab with a crawl space....Most of our footings are within a couple feet of sea level so we've never needed pilings but if you're indeed that deep you defintiely can't pour a footing on top of muck.....The other concern is flood insurance - the lower your first floor elevation the higher the flood insurance - I'd imagine if your first floor is under 10' the insurance would be astronomical.....your best bet is to talk to an engineer, get a survey, and go from there.

Just got a second place in front and borders my land Bought it to add to what I have and the extra privacy.

You can even create different classes of membership in LLCs where maybe the ones who put more in up front can have extra profits. 3) Division of labor? 

Would I turn my kids out without extra worry in this neighborhood?  

I like doing 30yrs and paying extra if needed, but gives the extra flexibility.  

LOL Not sure if Insurence costs are different ,but you are right about the extra set-up and Labor costs .

i buy them if they need them and we charge extra

I'd say it up to you whether or not to charge the extra $250.

But the real question is: Would you rather have the couple hundred dollars extra each year or the peace of mind knowing that your and your family's personal assets are not exposed because you decided to buy an investment property?

But the real question is:  Would you rather have the couple hundred dollars extra each year or the peace of mind knowing that your and your family's personal assets are not exposed because you decided to buy an investment property?