It requires a lot of time, energy, manpower and yes money, to do that.

New homes are built with all the Energy efficiency features resulting in cheaper monthly utilities.  

People will always want to live in these places which are a melting pot with diverse population, younger crowd, job opportunities and indescribable energy.

You don't need to sell, you don't need to resent him (he's not worth the energy), and you don't need to help him either.May the force be with you. 

I will take your advice and hold off on lenders for now and focus my energy and finding that rockstar real estate agent!

You should be focusing your energy on finding deals.

I'm not buying anything at these CAP rates, which contributes my little butterfly flap of energy to the downturn.  

There is decades and decades of petroleum and energy resources in the Permian Basin and Eagle Ford.

The LTV ratio for the mortgage loan must be determined by dividing the new loan amount by the lesser of the total acquisition cost (defined as the purchase price indicated in the land contract, plus any costs the purchaser incurs for rehabilitation, renovation, or energy conservation improvements) or the appraised value of the property at the time the new mortgage loan is closed.

Final connection to the power source either Power Grid or Alternative Energy option.Final connection will probably need to be inspected before a Green Tag is granted and power turned on.Mechanical - Not sure that a Cabin in Montana needs an HVAC system, maybe just a Fireplace for Winter and open window's with Fans for Summer.HVAC system may also need to be inspected, started, and possibly you may want to order a Test and Balance since you have multiple levels the system may be a little complicated.Plumbing Trim - Installation of Sinks, Faucets, Toilets, etc.As mentioned above, you might be able identify a rough SF budget by searching online for each of the above items and any others that I've failed to include that other commenters may point out.