I do know of some builders and lenders in the area that are organizing to create solutions for people who are stuck because a builder can't finish the job. 

As time moves on and people are stepping up their design game (As an STR Designer this makes me SOOOO darn happy!)

I understand you didn't like it, but who cares?

I've gotten the current infill lots by word of mouth, wholesalers, and people coming up to the build site asking if we'd like to buy their lots.

This gets technical, you need to understand the difference between a true "subject-to" and a "wrap". 

I understand that S8 tenants may come with certain baggage.

People from other international locals? 

Pre-understanding of the area/market, willingness to fix and live in an outdated and damaged home.

A great way to network and meet people in your local community is to attend in person meet ups.

I hear risk mitigation and taxes often....from what I understand (but could be wrong) pass through entities like LLCs don't impact taxes all that much and a good insurance policy is much better on the risk management front than an LLC that may or may not be ran properly.