The maps show the power lines on top of the garage but I visited the site and they are behind the garage (although very close). 

With capital gains if you file together I thinks it’s $250,000 that’s exempt but speak with an accountant for sure.  

As suggested you can open up your circle of friends by going to meetups and on sites like this to meet people you get along with and have an interest in real estate.

Sorry to not offer a connection, but for this one I think your best bet is to find the "land specialist" realtor in the area and get a CMA.If you want an extremely precise number hiring an appraiser is most likely the move. 

Thinking of starting in whole sailing and move on to other way of investing.

I think @AJ Wong's post is generally on point.

I'm thinking if you create a simple journal entry to allocate the amount of interest paid, principal paydown and any lender required escrow, that this would help that limitation.

I think I read on their website that they use NCOA so you can continue to have the notices sent to their new addresses when they move. 

Quote from @Jacob Sherman: black top the driveway and trim the existing landscaping and paint the exterior and it will look great Do you think the amount of stairs is a dealbreaker?

I think I know the answer but wanted to verify with more experienced investors.