However, if you are using a property that Texas law would recognize as "Abandoned" by its owner,  then it is possible/likely that you could claim a legally recognized "Possessory Interest" just by being the first person to occupy the abandoned property. 

Keep the w2 income until you have a proven plan, a supportive significant other and have the huevos.Frank

The more familiar you are, the quicker you can recognize value.

A Beneficial interest can be assigned to a third party, that is not a true sale of the [real] property but may be recognized as a sale for any mortgaged interest secured by the property which may trigger Due On Sale.  

Can anyone refer me to a good GC with a proven track record that can bid my project.

Will consider marginal neighborhoods but not awful neighborhoods.b) Financing short term, solid, flips executed with partners with a proven track record 

It is important to recognize this and continue your analysis such that it is in compliance with how your local market operates.

I would seek consultation from someone who has been a successful proven investor and creative practitioner, partner with him or give a share of the equity and cash flow he is able to help create (don't go it alone). 

But, it's a time-proven way of connecting idle capital with willing labor, for the benefit of both and if I can pull in $20,000/year or more from a $10,000 acre without picking up a shovel or dealing with late-paying tenants, I'll be happy. 

Recognize your current comfort zone and work to emerge from it and on to the next level.