And then you can use that information to start to develop your own personal due diligence method: Crowdstreet.com, 1031 Crowdfunding, Akr7, Finresi etc.

However, you have to invest in specific communities where they are encouraging development.

Like I brokered a 22  lot development of duplex's for a builder and just charged him 30k flat fee per sale.. they sold for 225k each back in 05 when I did this and I sold them all in one weekend at a big event i paid for in San Jose CA.. all to CA investors it was my fly and buy program I did in those days..

That is smaller units built with higher density to make the numbers work for both buyers and builders.Adapting to these challenges isn’t easy, but it’s necessary to keep up with the market.What are your thoughts on how builders and developers can address affordability and supply issues. 

So, while on the surface it sounds like you are entitled to your money back, a closer look at the contract and circumstances is needed to verify that.

I would talk to some lenders  getting land loans and development loans with no experience is next to impossible starting out.. 

Michael,   A good book to purchase is "Professional Real Estate Development: The ULI guide to Business.   

I want to develop my sales skills to negotiate better deals.

Think fix-and-flip properties or land development projects—things that don’t fit the cookie-cutter mold banks prefer.

This reduces exit options and affects the value. 10) Small number of small units is the most expensive residential development there is.