I suppose the short answer is contacting the local Planning and Zoning Commission to get an understanding on What mixed useage is allowed in the complex .What is your Cost Conversion per square foot if the town allows this to happen ?"

I always look up neighboring properties and get a price/sq foot of the house only (take appraised value - land and divide by sq feet). 

Others invest for appreciation but depending on the market it can be expensive to get your foot in the door.

However, some will charge by room, by square foot, etc.  

I want to get started on the right foot and not become another wannabe that quits after two months

This seems to me the best way to get my foot in the door and do some active learning, while still having the time to dedicate towards my job.  

Buy newer (late 1970s-early 1990s) with larger foot prints and fewer issues with infrastructure like electrical and plumping.

@Kristen SchlueterIf you're getting a late start in life, then I must have one foot in the grave. 

Your scenarios would be to see if they would partner if you bring the land to the table (and I am sure additional incentives) or have them quote a sq foot price to build a spec.

I have too many small bunches of leads every weak to do handwritten letters, but not enough to justify a minimum order with one of the bigger printing companies.I tried to reach out to Michael Quarles on this earlier this week, but didn't get a response.