The Mormon influence is significant and not for everyone, but it's been great for us!

; ) Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit.

Where in the Bay Area is the property will influence the type of work the property should have and what you mean by "gut". 

I would also want to have some sort of conditions on the sale of the lot that I would manage the project for a fee and that I would have influence over the type of home that is built, and that the builder would be in on the deal from the start, and it would all be structured to protect everyone and everyone gets their profit. 

Price point and local transfer taxes are going to heavily influence this. 3% is typical where I am.

I suggest reading "How to Win Friends and Influence People," by Dale Carnegie.

So far I've read the following books;- Think and grow rich- The four hour work week- How to win friends and influence people- Your money or your life- The millionaire next doorYour input will be very helpful towards helping me achieve my real estate goals in the future!

Typically I don’t want my tenant trying to influence what is put into a unit or “extra” stuff being done.  

However, I'm pretty well versed in the federal programs.Also, make friends with political figures and influencers early on.

Make sure everyone got all the scope of work correct, and make your decision based on their track record (this is the key) and cost, don't let emotion influence your decision.