Opinions - best place to invest west coast of Florida?

[Greg Wolfe]

Working hard at my W-2 job to save as much as possible for a downpayment as I'll likely be moving to St Pete within the next 18 - 24 months.  I visit often and have family there, I know the neighborhoods, but haven't yet talked to a realtor or gotten pre-approved.  I would love a 3-family or 4-family to live in, and rent the rest.  Anyone have any opinions on:

FINANCING

- Any local banks / credit unions around Florida that I should talk to?

LOCATIONS

- Any neighborhoods / areas that are reasonably priced but have strong rents?