I just bought a duplex with an unfinished basement and am thinking about adding a unit in the basement (if zoning permits me to).

If you don't tell your broker, you run the risk of cutting yourself out of future deals, both with themy and whoever they may mention it to.

Someone will lend with 50% D to I?

Brandon, it is quite the noble undertaking you aspire to.

If you are lacking any one of these three items, a bank won't work for you and you should use private money or hard money to get your deal.Another item you alluded to is a cash offer is better than a offer subject to financing. 

I don't know the whole metro area but the five zip codes I mail to I know inside and out.

I like to consider myself ambitious and I look forward to utilizing the education I get here to I can dive into the world of Real Estate!

Is this an unlisted property, and are you the only one she is talking to?

I don't know if you listen to a lot of them, but some good ones I listen to is; -Tim Ferris Show-Chatting With Champions- Rich Dad Radio Show

If college students are a demographic you would consider renting to, I would recommend making decisions to prepare your property for an increased level of wear and tear.