I'm happy to make formal connections to both of them.We also have a list of several other quality architects we would happily share.What part of Chicago will your project be in?

The Sellers Agent said the Seller would fix the issues after the closing date and that we would be able to choose all the contractors.

Since my strategy would definitely involve house hacking, I was thinking about house hacking with a mixed-use property.It could be interesting to evaluate as a strategy, but only if I can access financing with a low downpayment.How would that work from a financing standpoint?

I would also know about the surrounding area's as well.

If you connect with any knowledgable realtors, they should be able to tell you valuations.

Looking at new builds (brand new or recent), vetted for major repairs (there will be none presumably, some have a builders' warranty), that I will potentially own for 10-ish years. 

If you or any of your clients ever need funding for fixer-upper projects, I’d be happy to help with hard money lending options.

To sale right now would be a positive income because it appreciated 20% since purchase and I have several years of equity in it while it served as a rental.

Additionally, I’ve secured seller financing for half of the purchase price, but I’ve been told this could complicate things further since banks typically prefer being in the first lien position.

@Taylor WongHi Taylor,Lots of intricacies with taking someone else's entitlement but can be done for a desperate seller.