Heading into 2017, we may be facing the real possibility that the party is over.  

I would now like to seek some professional guidance from an architect, residential construction contractor, etc. to first gauge whether or not my vision is possible, potential road-blocks, and alternative development ideas.

Keep the relationship a professional one from the start.

There are some really nice old houses that once fixed up, both students and professionals love to rent because of their close proximity to the city and campuses. 

I was recently at a meeting where the speaker stated that many investors made their seed money in other ventures such as owning restaurants, a professional career such as CPA, etc.

Build relationships with multi-family property owners and real estate professionals in your area.  

not very professional especially for a Realtor.  

What would you consider the a/b areas where you will get professional type renters?

A lot of times the less professional they look, the better they work.

As a security the note can be sold if proper steps are taken and it is sold with the proper party that holds the proper licenses to engage in that activity.