I had the same type of experience with another contractor and was thinking about going after him in court but decided not to because he had an Corporation and I was afraid he would file bankruptcy if i went after him.

I was/am involved in the development of a roughly 5 acre parcel on Kauai. 

Are you enforcing late fees, notices, and filing for eviction?

I've been a part of some of these deal and the psychology of everyone involved is fascinating. 

Rates keep changing and have filed a couple of claims over the years only to get denied.

I'm involved with buying the first rental property for our daughter.

If it is in fact your property taxes, you might want to talk to a property tax consultant in the area that can file a protest for you.  

Remember that title insurance involves multiple parties.

Most conventional wisdom/lessons learned are to the tune of not over leveraging, and any discussion involving >80% LTV seems to create a sense of nervousness (I am making a generalization here).

We haven't designed the houses yet, but I'm estimating 1,600-1,800 sq ft.I guess what I'm having the hardest time estimating is the assorted fees involved.