It would probably be worth a phone call to the Garland Planning and Zoning department to ascertain which areas are permitted to have short term rentals. 

Then again, we did get a septic permit - so maybe that's worth something over what we payed for it.2.

The initial phase will involve a registration requirement and an as-yet-undetermined annual permit fee per unit.

Its going to depend on what your state permits.

My hesitation was first of all the price, second of all the very hands on nature where for that price I felt like it should have been done for you, and third the relative opaqueness of the program itself.

We paid more for a commercial property (less hassle from the City in regard to getting a permit) and our theme is quintessential French. 

I would appreciate references to experienced professionals (architects, arborists, GC, surveyors etc.) who can help me negotiate and get permits for a short plat in Bellevue, WA. 

Duplex have different zoning that may permit additional units.

I'd just run your numbers on the new development i.e. how much can you get land for, building permits, water/sewer hook-ups, etc. 

Instead they have worthless, patched, barely livable trailers, complete eyesores.You need to call your local building permit office and see what their requirements are for homes.