This is still relatively close to downtown Denver and over the long-term is probably a good play development from Sloan's Lake continues south and will come here eventually.

As long as adequate thought is put forth, any question is game...Bird's eye view here - I would find out how long he/she has owned some of these properties.

Looking to get into the investing and commercial development arena.

What kind of advice would you offer to a young individual still in college, that wants to enter the real estate game? 

If anyone can point or explain how I can research market trends on houses being sold in an area so I can always be on the know and develop a competent understanding of my local market. 

Investing is a numbers game and if you don't have numbers, you can't calculate the investment. 

Sounds to me like you are either speaking with a local conservative bank, or a misinformed individual.If you want to "play the credit game", one simple option is to open a credit card or 2, but don't use it. 

I have an opportunity to purchase this property, and tear it down to construct a 4 or 5 level condo type building (which is what is being done by the local developers in this area).

yes, it will be rental income from a new development I am building and have been working on, lots of sweat equity!

Before deciding where to invest, I would encourage you to develop your investment criteria, budget, objectives, goals and liquidity constraints.