The developers are more focused on the middle-zone, high-density, work that opened up with the new zoning.

We've been scrambling since, they offered for me to put 40% down, or to buy the interest rate down, I said no. 

But if it's strictly str only, no personal use, IRS seems to allow deductions and losses as any other rental.

Study and learn how the tax code works and where you might be able to optimize and save.2.

Unfortunately, I don't have the working capital to procure the land and finance the entitlements process.

Hi there,Considering a duplex as your primary home and renting out the other unit is a great idea, but you need to understand how interest rates work in this scenario.When you buy a duplex and plan to live in one unit, you can still qualify for a residential mortgage, which typically has better interest rates compared to commercial loans.

Look my problem has been people/groups wasting my time with no money.  

Good work Nate!

(whatever it is you use).Some people borrow against their personal residence with a HELOCK for this needed cash, but I've seen those go bad in several instances, and the results were not very pleasant for the borrower.In many instances working a second job can allow you to set aside cash, or you might inherit it, or find a cash filled partner.But the bottom line is, initially your success is measured by how much cash you have to invest.And be careful of Hyperbole.Good Luck!

@Mose Gebremeskel - I'm suspicious of platforms that offer services at no cost.