I want to start some sort of llc or other corporations so I can sign contracts.

A buddy was telling me that he heard of a method of getting financing via buying an established company and leveraging the company's equity to obtain financing.

Is this real/legit or should I tell him to beware?

Tha...

I would welcome suggestion/opinion on some of the questions below(1) Is it OK for me to knock on the door and politely ask owners to vacate? 

But also soften the blow with a polite phone call.

I've got a corporation service renting a house from me long term and they will only pay via their bill payment service which is by check. 

You as the new developer must prove to yourself that the 24 units in fact is real and can be built without undue cost, time, and political risk.I would ask to set up a meeting with the city planning department, have your broker and architect go with you, ask as many questions as you can about:A.

We have a Corporate Rental Townhouse near Charlotte, NC and it has been doing very well since the day we listed it.My current tenant initially booked this property for 65 days (we had a 30 day min) and he now would like to extend the stay for another 90 days which is great!

Immediately I appear as the "local guy" rather than the "corporate guy".

I think jay would echo what we practice - unless there's a compelling reason (financing, political stroke, or discount on land) I will always prefer and attempt to buy out the land owner and get them out of the way. 

Try to look at publicly traded real estate developers, they may disclose some similar project budgets, but be aware that doing a project of that scale requires and lot of political connection which may increase or decrease your cost.