Why not look for the fourplex now and just eliminate the whole "renting" phase?

My parents then moved to another new neighborhood where they got in during phase 1 for $330,000 and had it recently appraised over $400,000 now that the neighborhood is fully developed.

I'm close to a point where I can start investing more seriously, but definitely feel like I'm in the "don't know what I don't know" phase of learning.Is there a Boise/Meridian area real estate investors group that meets regularly? 

You probably have to generate your own distressed lead sources to get better deals...or invest in the future....in my experience rents in DFW have come up...so maybe your first year is a bit negative, year 2 you get another $50/rent....and as long as you keep up the property and do upgrades on vacancies, and don't just never put money in it and drive it into the ground, value should go up. 

for me in general the more distressed the bigger the opportunity...my largest returns have come from building ground up....but agree with above, need more info for sure

Construction has already begun and is 37% phase one complete.Current appraisal is 977 000.

., and a Real Estate Investment Brokerage in case you ever decide to sell.By teaming up with a solid firm you can mitigate your risk and have some "boots on the ground" that have your best interest in mind.

Great location, brand new, hoa manages the grounds and exterior maintenance, very hands off.

Each building has a 4,000 sqft commercial ground floor.

I think this is possible good idea to consider but the main problem is how to find an inspection services or your city inspectors who are willing to go to China to inspect in every necessary phases.