I think that getting along with others will come as you get older and you gain more confidence.  

I have been scouting some land and it would be a really low investment for the surplus you would gain out of it.

The big gains are typically in emerging markets.

hahah ask Joanna Gaines! 

I'm hoping to gain some insight from an experienced investor, local to the area.

But since it's your first deal, it might be worth doing just to gain the experience. 

If I know I'm going to have capital gains , would it be best to spend the money that's going towards tax on the gain or spend the money on capital improvements to bring up the cost basis?

Perhaps if the numbers work, could you sell your current home, if you have lived in it for more than 2 years, in order to pay a more favorable capital gains rate, then move into the new house.

If absentee owner, gaining that owner's address and contact information3.

Interview with Chip and JoAnna Gaines.