If I build again I’ll go in with a partner and shoot for a duplex or smaller home.

If you have a high 7 rate then it might be beneficial in the long run to pay it down if you don't want to put it in a 4% savings account or CD.  

@Jerry Velezif a property is owned outright with no mortgages, debts or liens on it, then it can (potentially) be purchased on seller financing. 

Another trick from investers I’ve worked with is chatting up folks at local meetups who’ve recently navigated the same municipality.. they’re often happy to share how fast or slow things move.

I feel my feedback is in best interest of OP whether he takes it or not.best wishes to OP.  

People you talk to will either love or hate S8.

One word of caution: the court orders typically allow repairs to make a home habitable, i.e. rent-ready, but not cosmetic or similar non-essential repairs, like upgrades or additions.

Ok so a diff path then my previous post.I also wanted to invest in real estate but just assume( and bet is probably true) that most of the people that find truly good investments have  either or all of the following the most "average joes" don't:1.

I have a couple of CFO clients in KC that might be interested (or know people that might be interested).

Electric-needs a separate address or unit number.