Step 2: Narrow down your "buy box" (are you market-indifferent, are you looking for a certain level of cash flow, etc.).Step 3: Connect with real estate agents and begin making offers!

I know I could have a family member co-sign a mortgage with me but not sure the best way to approach that conversation and what incentives I’d be able to offer to make it worth while for them other then their “familial duties” haha. 

With that said, I've done some research on the market and found the following information helpful in my considerations for Phoenix that you might find helpful as well:  Demand for both buying and renting property remains high due to the city's strong economy and growing population. 

Quote from @Miguel Del Mazo: Nick and Nicole are offering great advice. 

Hey Andrew, welcome to the Forums.That’s awesome you’ve been learning about real estate since high school—starting early will really pay off.

Is refinancing not an option in your mind because of the high pre-payment penalty?

Watch out for what gets deducted in home warranty or concessions but those will be in offers you accept. 

Hopefully things continue to progress, and you come out on top with a huge equity position/high cash flow when it's all completed. 

Key Questions:Would it be more financially prudent to sell the rental property and pay off a chunk of my high-interest primary mortgage (7.375%), and use the remainder for a fix and flip?

However, our research indicates that many DSCR lenders require Florida properties to be held in an entity.Are there any DSCR lenders that offer loans for properties held in a personal name?