(Note: right now I am not considering STRs).1/ Columbus, OH2/ Tulsa, OK3/ Huntsville, ALFor additional context, my main goal is to invest in a market that allows me to cash flow AND build appreciation over time.

Thanks for the advice  @Will GastonThis is my first house and I hope to be in real estate for the long haul so Ill take your advice! 

Does your system allow you to pinpoint what alarm was set off first?

Starting with a private lender loan and standard tenants may be simpler for your first property.

Looking out of state (because of prices and more landlord friendly areas) but open to hear others successes in Cali investing (for first time purchases).  

Currently, there's only one water meter for the entire duplex, and historically, I've been responsible for paying the water bills every month.However, I believe it's time to transition to a system where the water bill is split between the two tenants.

Hi there, my wife and I live in California and are currently under contract on our first rental property, a duplex in Bismarck, North Dakota.

A 25 basis point cut is likely, with a 75% probability, as the Fed weighs solid wage growth and labor market strength.Part-Time Employment & Immigration ImpactPart-time employment surged by 264,000, reflecting business caution.

Mind you this is the second time this has happened.

In your case, the finance charges you are currently paying will likely be less than any construction debt you originate so I would recommend first confirming with the existing lender how to release the developable parcel and then obtain all of your approvals before proceeding.