We plan to build a cabin or cabins for our family use and an STR.

You have NO leverage, no matter what he builds or does not build, except for the developer saving some money in legal fees and cutting down on mesne profits damages.

or get this sold or is the interest rate too hard to get past? 

BiggerPockets is full of resources designed to help you along your journey, whether you are just getting started or a seasoned investor.

I am looking to buy a 2 or 3-unit home in NYC.

Gas or electric would be a much better option, safety wise, from a house fire standpoint, CO danger, or danger to children or pets from the open flames. 

One of their so called instructors from one of the training sessions asks the students to go to the five star hotels, or go play golf, or go horse riding, or go hang out at the high end night clubs for the sake of fund raising.

I'm not sure if this is a local thing or if it's common in all markets.

I am also willing to work for a more experienced investor or property management company in any capacity, be that market research, deal sourcing, property management assistance, rental optimization, or anything else needed.

A 2 minute email is charged as 7 minutes or 15 minutes depending on the attorney and expertise.