Other things you can do:Talk to neighbors with similar housing types and ask about foundation issues -- if the houses were built by the same developer sometimes there will be common themes throughout a developmentDetermine the type and age of the foundation.

Ideally, a partnership and go from there.

We would also like to cash out some funds and possibly buy another property, ideally.

We would also like to cash out some funds and possibly buy another property, ideally.

But first, here's some homework for you - on one sheet (digital or analog) write down:Pull out your comps research and demographics, from this create an ideal customer. there's plenty online to walk you through how to perfectly describe this person in detail. 

Is this a well stablished developer that has been doing this for years or is he starting out and willing to accept less of a percentage just to get some deals going?

I also run a small fund that does development so I can appreciate it from both sides. 1.

However, your suggestion of metal roofs is ideal - they are beautiful and durable in many extreme weather situations.

Ideal places for us are: Santa Cruz, Monterey, Lake Tahoe, San Diego, etc...).- Be a day's drive or less to our families (one family lives in San Diego another lives in the Bay Area). - To buy something that helps us build wealth rather than wipe out our savings and dig us into a debt hole at $6500+ a month mortgage (for if our income changes). - To buy smart because our income fluctuates wildly. 

I understand Vegas is probably not the most ideal place to start my investing career, but like @Bill Brandt said, I live here and am not interested in investing elsewhere as my first investment.