Any recommendations (books to read, websites, etc.) for someone looking to get started in real estate development?  

After developing your "personal touch" and adding experience you'll be able to hone in on your desired approach.

Blake,I don't know how the laws are in Pennsylvania but in Florida you can establish and LLC and then register with the IRS as an S-Corp for tax purposes only.

I suppose this has to do with developing criteria you can trust enough.

The entire property has development potential and is just on the border of the war zone of town.  

Most lenders will require the "live in the home for one year" in order to qualify for their programs, but there are some instances where you can develop a relationship with a local back, show them the numbers if they are rock solid, and try to work a deal.

What do you say, how do you approach, how do you develop a good business relationship with such an owner?

They take time to develop.

Personally, I have been looking hard into the suburban areas surrounding (particularly single family homes) due to the low crime and development of new businesses.  

We went live after 2 years of development 3/21/2015 and have signed up 6 companies so far.