Here, the benefits of new are: 1) builder warranties are provided, 2) the homes are new so your larger capital components (AC, roof, etc.) should be good for a while (though you should be setting money aside for their future replacement), 3) lower insurance costs, and 4) no upfront fixing to do, among other lesser benefits. 

This is my first deal, am I on the right track or missing a key component?

@Eric Metz@Eric PinterEric Mentz, thanks for sharing.Eric Pinter, I think this is the key component which makes successful TK companies with long term visions successful.  

I don't see how paying off your rentals is detrimental to your tax burden.  

It's actually as follows:Fannie Mae is expanding the definition of reserves to include all components of the monthlyhousing expense (PITIA), including: principal and interest, hazard, flood, and mortgage insurance premiums (as applicable), real estate taxes, ground rent, special assessments, any owners’ association dues (excluding any utility charges that apply to the individualunit), any monthly cooperative corporation fee (less the pro rata share of the master utility chargesfor servicing individual units that is attributable to the borrower’s unit), and any subordinate financing payments on mortgages secured by the subject property.For properties 5-6: six months of reserves on the subject property if it is an investment property, and six months of reserves on each other financed second home or investment property.For properties 1-4: six months of reserves on the subject property if it is an investment property, and two months of reserves on each other financed second home or investment property.

It seems like becoming friends with people with whom you have a business arrangement might be extremely detrimental.

The city also provided written documentation, that they'd be willing to assist in zoning changes if need be for an office / residential component, senior living, or just straight apartments.

Foundations are one of the most important components of structures.

I wish there were more Canadian components present!

It by far has been the most impactful component of this community for me.Feel free to reach out if you have any questions!