Flips & development carry more execution and cost risk (contractors, permit delays, cap overrun).With rentals, your upside compounds: rent, appreciation, tax advantages.Also gives you time to learn property management skills, local regulations, and build your reputation.

It's led me to the permitted uses in that zone, which includes "single-family dwelling units."

You can do automated searches in May locales for vacant land by square footage; a say 20,000 square foot parcel is more likely to be an infill situation than a 200,000 sq ft lot.  

.🏠 New Construction Slows in AugustStarts dropped 8.5% to a 1.31M pace, and permits hit a 5-year low.

I just submitted my plans to the counties pre zoning/permitting office for approval.

So with that square footage you could put in cabinets and  some appliances but you can't go with a tradition stove kitchen until it is permitted for the right use. 

But you may want to check with the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) about what they require for you to add a meter to your property. 

You might NOT be able to get an STR permit.

Permit delays are definitely a huge headache for many of us.

Navigating Atlanta's STR OrdinanceFinally, on a related note, we are aware of the city's rule limiting an individual to two STR permits (one for a primary residence and one additional unit).Question: For those who operate more than two STRs, how have you structured your business to remain compliant with this city ordinance?