You also have to add on site construction costs, utilities (if they're not already in place), permits, etc.

This article would seem to agree.Is it possible it was another tax section that permitted you the bonus depreciation specifically on GOZONE real property?

Whether that is permitted in all states, I can't say. 

Let me know if you need permits pulled or if it is a small job. 

Most hired hands are going to burn out fast after they have to chew out a misbehaving sub the third or fourth time.Let me give you an idea from my perspective -We are a design build firm and handle projects including plans, design, permit, material logistics, payroll, book-keeping, ground/assembly management, scheduling, rescheduling, vendor management, quality control/assurance, and every other aspect of construction.We typically have about 5 'ground active' jobs, and 5-7 more in the hopper in some phase of planning, design, or permitting.To accomplish this, we have a meager staff of 2 designers (one of whom is a 20 year architectural veteran), a full time office manager, a full time site manager, a helper who splits time between being a carpenter's assistant and a gopher for materials, and someone who does scheduling and material takeoffs.

They said I could pull the permits and they do the work.

Things like $50 landlord fee, $300 power deposit, electrical inspections that almost always result in more work, pulled permits, garbage fee, etc...  

Our real estate agent suggested we apply for a student housing permit a d off the property as a rental to Students.

I'd be curious if the garage addition was permitted.  

Most cities/counties won't give a permit to move that vintage.