Alternate rent models can work in specific situations, but as you said, they aren’t always superior to traditional LTR, especially after the costs and effort. 

How do fellow landlords handle this situation?

maybe you can form your own mastermind / small group of local people in your same situation and work on strategies together.I think @Marcus Auerbach totally nailed it. 

Seller Financing I am the buyer with 30 days to purchase the property and want to simultaneously market it as rent-to-own,  how can I structure the process effectively:Can I structure the deal this way, so I can secure a tenant-buyer while working to close on the home myself,  minimizing my risk and creating a win-win situation.

I was wrong.The situation regarding data in FL is, unfortunately, not the same as other states.

Build an SMB on top of your real estate (the reverse of #2)Short-term rentals and high owner-participation real estate businesses can have great returns.Obviously not for you if you just want passive RE.We are in the deep end here, where each case should be judged on its own facts and merits by your CPA.You should hire a professional to review your particular situation before you make an investment.

While it is rare, there are situations where a Broker is not a member of an MLS. 

.- My Resources / Constraints: I'm in a by no means unique, but perhaps less common situation for those getting started; I'm a somewhat senior software engineer at a tech megacorp and should be able to save a couple of down payments per year for lower priced houses (100-200 in my area), or perhaps one medium priced house (300-500).

Stick with classic neutrals to appeal to the widest range of buyers.There are situations where clients touring homes immediately pass on properties due to strong or unusual color choices.

If they don't you personal financial situation plays a bigger part in securing a loan.