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

Never used software.

Check out some of things happening in Detroit in 2024:https://michiganchronicle.com/2024/01/03/major-developments-that-will-define-detroit-in-2024/Your first question shouldn't be WHERE to invest (that is #2 question), but HOW you will invest!

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

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

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

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..

I am not interested in this space as a "get rich quick" solution but more so about developing and growing assets over time and eventually trading up into better assets that can provide the cash flow I need to accomplish my goals.

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

.- Additionally, you can track income and expenses consistently using software or spreadsheets.If you track everything, you could show a loss and use that to offset other earned income (such as a W2) which will net you a bigger refund.