And when developing a parcel from the ground up, investors take on more types of risk than just the construction risk.

With the case from that article, it seems to me the developer is just taking some profit by letting go of the retail space and focusing on the office space. 

I am looking to network with real estate developers in Georgia.

Like Account Closed said, you need to develop a relationship with a wholesaler/investor-friendly Realtor, etc. that you trust so that you can offer on these properties with more confidence from out of state.

Ideally you can have both. 

That helps build a rapport between the two of you and let's you find your ideal property manager!

Now I am a software developer looking to begin investing.

It is ideally suited for fix and flips and BRRRR where you can take advantage of cycling the money without having to ask someone to borrow it.

If you have fair credit, verifiable rental history and consistent income you can easily secure FHA financing in Houston and the inner city is the ideal place to house hack because of it's proximity to all the cool and trendy places downtown along with the major universities and Med Center.

Would love for you to share how you developed your mentality towards wholesalers.