We worked up my current project, he was very helpful. 

Most banks will require between 20-25% of total costs of the construction project (including land, building costs, permit costs, soft costs, etc). 

If you want the project to cost you less, do it faster.

I have estimates of the costs for architectural services and a ball park figures for the renovation costs, acquisition costs and a financial projection of the revenues and investor recompense. 

Plus, they can provide you with monthly information and project (rehab) tracking information as you need it.  

They currently pay no rent and live in deplorable conditions with their two massive dogs.I appreciate that NY is an awfully tenant friendly state.

I've spent seven hundred hours on my personal real estate projects this year...there is no way I'd commit that kind of time if I wasn't making a profit.

If in theory this project is brand new with separate meters, intact plumbing, electrical boxes etc. still only 2 unit building, should the process be straight forward?

Not sure how things are out there but I️ would only assume that if you restored it right in a historical fashion and marketed the property to a wealthy buyer who appreciates historic homes then possibly could have a massive deal.

We are familiar with many of the limitations the Honolulu Department of Planning and Permits places on such a project.