She would like to commit to a 2 or 3 year lease.

When I first started looking a few weeks ago, I got a number of very acceptable quotes but just didn't want to commit to signing up until closer to the purchase date, in case a better deal popped up.

@Nelson Taylor I can PM you a couple of builder names if you'd like, in case no one gets back to you here.In general, I would urge you to talk to the Pawtucket building department before you commit to buying the 3F, to get reasonable assurances that they would approve the subdivision and building the SF on the new lot.I'm not saying those kinds of things never get approved, because they do, but it's rare, and it's usually an uphill battle.

However, he’s a workaholic, and doesn’t mind, or rather enjoys the additional stress, aggravation, frustration, and time commitment involved.

I was thinking about having him be a private lender that simply provides the downpayment for a property and just pay him 8% annually (monthly or quarterly distributions) and but wondering how I would structure it if he wanted his principle out, ie: 5 year commitment minimum, 6 months notice? 

And congrats on joining BP as a PRO member - it shows your commit to real estate investment - take care.

You'll be able to see the quality of their work as well as how clean they keep the jobsite.If you're committed, another good way is to show up at Home Depot at 6:30 in the morning and start chatting with the guys that are coming and going.

It's a part time commitment. 3-5 hours a day, but it's also every weekday, so it is more consistent than a fast food type job.

But honestly I was overwhelmed at the expected time commitment.

Being new as you are to this, you can't yet assess the contract, assignment agreement, survey (if any), title commitment, closing docs, etc.