I can draw knowledge from as I go and make this a learning opportunity once I feel confident about the potential and my ability to handle such a task.

The line of demarcation between our roles is relatively easy to draw because it fits our personalities but some couples really struggle so it's not as easy for others as it is with us.I love that you're working with your wife.

That sounds like one guy is providing a lot more civil work/city communication than just drawings...Or allowance for changes vs. charging you for additional modifications.

However, I think it is what draws people to our cottage and makes it rent as well as it does.

Ask the HML to explain their draw process, make sure you understand it.Ask about any fees they have, both on front end and back end.

I think the proximity to Tempe and Downtown Phoenix is the biggest draw for this area. 

from pics it looks like mostly flooring and paint (to cover up these beautiful drawings)

It will "mature" into a 20 year fixed rate mortgage that you can no longer draw on.

Get a contract with your brother, most state have a standard real estate contract  and you should each have your own real estate lawyer to draw up/ review the contract.     

You can have an attorney draw up an operating agreement and check the LLC.