These were plats of subdivisions that were platted and recorded in the early 1900's but never developed and generally owned by one individual or company.

Also, real builders/experienced developers will often have a true technician, i.e. a civil engineer, architect, real estate attorney et al at least glance at the property info to make sure there are no major red flags.

It is the State capital so there is always economic development happening which drives job growth and demand for housing.

Please be aware that all national homebuilders, and I would assume solar developers as well, will want enough time in the contract to conduct substantial due diligence, rezone (if needed), and get all required land development permits in place before closing on the land. 

Rising home prices for developers isn't new, but if you were in contract, what they did is most likely illegal.

Also, a contractor may not be the best person to develop your scope of work! 

We expect to be in a position to redeem your interests in short order, and we will keep you posted, as always, on any developments in this regard.We understand the importance of distributions to our investors and recognize the impact this decision may have on your financial planning.

In my developments, I went to everyone I could in the area and got the most RELIABLE (not cheapest) person in order to make my numbers work the best. 

I'm an investor and flipper in the city, and I work for a developer focused specifically in Lowell as well.

Always approach as a developer with a specific usage.