As an appraiser I’ve appraised a handful of properties recently that are outside of city limits and operating successfully as STR’s that don’t have the same regulations as the city of St Pete.

All in, I think a large amount of GC's in the residential world tend to operate in less professional manners, which results in a lot of the problems we have read and seen above.

While the second LLC does not yet have an EIN, can we temporarily operate using only the bank account of the first LLC (which also holds the property)?

She's not trying to be an airbnb operator.  

Hawaii is one of the two markets I operate in (and Anchorage, AK).

Quote from @Chris Mason: They have simulators for heavy equipment operators: bulldozer, backhoe, etc.

Also, in general, I wouldn't solely rely on a single source, rather: 1) collect feedback from various sources, 2) decide which components are the most critical for you personally, 3) weigh in on the pros and cons, 4) speak with all of the operators to add to the list of pros and cons, 5) and only then make an informed decision. 

I do NOT think having an operating LLC located in a different state than the ones owned is overkill. 

With limitations on court operations, no evictions related to non-payment (COVID-related or not) can be pursued right now, and likely for several months.

I have seen several offers from operators around the country who are offering interest rates of sub 6% for a 30-year fixed mortgage with a 20% down payment required, NO POINTS.