If it didn't work out, they pointed out, I could always move back to the East coast and continue on where I left off.Before I left the East coast, my reasons for accepting the offer were (1) masters degree, (2) industry experience, and (3) professional salary.

I want to crunch some numbers to see if it'd work out for me.

However, I'm sure a little research would turn something else up, certainly at least a 2nd from private investors.BUT -- and work your numbers carefully or this may be useless -- if the numbers work out, it'll be just like starting over from scratch.

And that makes it all work out for me.:)

It all seems to work out for everyone.

Find a solid contractor(s) and realize that the "deals" with people in exchange for work almost never work out unless they are ALSO paying holding costs...otherwise, they just do it when they want and often that is AFTER everything else.2.

You would not be able to lend him money in this case.But maybe something can work out where he creates a Qualified Opportunity Fund where you are both partners and it is funded with the proceeds of the sale of your second home. 

If this deal doesn't work out - Don't give up...My suggestion is to locate an operator/sponsor who has the experience you seek.

I tried this with another friend and made the mistake of making him an equal and trying to do deals together splitting it 50/50 and it totally did not work out.

What are you trying to work out regarding the area?