Keep saving as much as you can.

Would be nice to contact in person and share the ideas further.

I normally save my clients thousands on new builds. 

They give a general idea of where property lines are but are not useful for determining issues of just a few feet.

There is no need to create an LLC right away; save your money and invest in yourself!

Lately, I've been contemplating the idea of venturing into the short-term rental market and I'm considering whether converting this property could be a good start.

The other strategy I've considered, but have no idea if it's feasible, is getting some sort of hard money loan for a live in flip just to get the place and then refinancing it with an owner occupant loan once it's fixed up and I move in.

Start saving as much as you can.

What do I save?

You have a good idea BUT here in New York you have very slim pickings.