You can also call local property managers and ask what they're seeing for similar units, they often have the most accurate pulse on market rents.If comps are still thin, try reverse-engineering from sales comps and assume a rent-to-price ratio based on similar nearby areas.

I will get to it after telling a bit about my path.I am a natural engineer.  

I If you make an offer that takes into account the condition I suggest you get in both a structural engineer and a contractor for cost estimates.  

I have moonlighted for several Architects and through hard work and good fortune stumbled on an opportunity to become an apprentice electrical engineer. 10 years later I am a senior engineer, together with my wife, have a decent portfolio of Real Estate.

I’d reverse engineer your 5–10 year income goal, then decide if you’d prefer a more hands-off path (like index funds) or a more active one (like rentals or a side business).

With my engineering background, I’m comfortable with analysis and research, but I quickly realized the available information just didn’t fit my needs.

Then our civil engineer plats that house for our first approval.

At minimum you’ll need an architect (to design plans that meet code), a general contractor (to build), and potentially a civil engineer (if there’s grading, utilities, or drainage work). 

I currently live in Colorado and am a software engineer, but am from southern Iowa & northern Minnesota.

Trying to reverse-engineer this thing the smart way.Really appreciate you keeping it honest — this kind of insight is super helpful for someone like me who’s trying to build it right from day one.