Play the long game but realize that maximizing long term net worth has to stop if you want to be financially independent.3.

I don't understand enough about it to know if them stocking up on single-family and small multi-family properties in the Denver area, at the current prices, is a good initial play that will hold up.

The accessibility to contractors, market familiarity, and buyer demand all play huge roles in the success of a project.

I'd imagine the interest rate plays a large role in what discount is given, along with house value, down payment and credit score of mortgagor.

In some states, particularly those with warmer climates and robust population growth, seasonality plays a less significant role.

Immigration plays a big role in this, so it would be hard to predict unless you know what happens with population growth.I think it's still a basic human need, and one that the government can not provide at a reasonable cost.

Almost zero but normally they play nicely.7.

I also know that they "didn't know about the sale ahead of time", so I have to imagine that played a role in the lien. 

I will play devil's advocate here. 

Trying to save money by foregoing insurance is playing russian roulette.