If Florida is anything similar to its northern neighbor (Georgia), you can probably build for as low as $60/sf if you're your own GC, if you don't have to spend a fortune on utility hook-ups and if permit costs are relatively low.We build with mid-level finishes in the low-$60s/sf in Atlanta...

It's really hard to get an idea of cost without someone actually going out to bid the job (not knowing the size, location, grading for the lot, whether you need to add curb cuts to enter this new garage from the street or if it's from the alley, routing utilities, etc).  

I am in my mid-twenties and plan to utilize my knowledge in the construction and real estate industries to invest in real estate privately.

My name is LeRoy Kerr I am a supervisor for a underground utilities contractor.

The answer might be a bit extensive but if someone can explain it in a summary, I'd appreciate it. 

We have a HUD house under contract and are in a 10 day inspection period and called to have utilities turned on for the inspector.

@Ryan DonohueThat template could be great for utilizing tax records and the appraisal district's website.I'd like to explore what excel can do for me with databases as well.

We DON'T do rooming houses EVER...thes folks all sign 6-month leases and go through an extensive background check...we don't care about credit as that's why the majority rent with us.  

If everything works out in my favor and they do go down, I might even end up making money off the deal if I rent the "efficiency".I know this is an extensive post for a possible basic question but as time is limited I wanted to make sure you experts have all the details of the situation and how I am thinking.If besides of my previous two questions you have any advice/warnings/questions/etc please feel free to let me know.

In Exchange for allowing us access to these funds:My wife and I will continue to rent out the home and cover all utilities and the mortgage.