If you are working with an investor friendly team your lender can guide you as to how to keep the ball rolling.

I'm here to share my experience and help guide you through your journey.The Tampa Bay area is ripe with opportunities, and with your background in business and the discipline from your Marine service, you're already ahead of the game.

One piece of advice I would recommend if you want to go FHA is getting to understand the self sufficiency test for 3 and 4 unit buildings. https://www.newcastle.loans/mortgage-guide/fha-self-sufficie... 

If you go to Cleveland give The Ultimate Guide to Grading Cleveland Neighborhoods a read first.

Engaging with the community through forums and local meetups can also provide valuable insights and support from experienced investors.By setting clear objectives, you can create a roadmap that guides your decision-making process and keeps you focused on your ultimate aspirations.

We are putting together a SellerFinancing Resources Guide, I wanted to get feedback to see what kinds of information you think would be helpful. 

I’m a total rookie, but I’m eager to learn how to create passive income and make smart investments.I’d love to connect with experienced investors and maybe even find a mentor who can help guide me along the way.

Randy Sir I just want to say thank you very much for sharing your perspective and experience on the subject, for me it is very important to know what you the more experience investors in the house think, so as to be guided by your advise and experience, thank you very much on3c again Randy--James 

You don't need a reason, though it sounds like you have plenty.Do yourself a favor: buy "Every Landlord's Legal Guide" by NOLO.

3) I'd definitely connect with an investor friendly agent and/or lender on here or from local meet-ups to help guide you on your loan strategy.