We then stayed in that one (though it wasn't bad - just needed some cosmetic updates) for 7 years, just moved out, kept it as a long term rental, and moved into another major fixer in our STR market across the country near Acadia National Park in Maine.

Since you are on the other side of the country, you may not have considered that PA is filled with many micro markets as well within driving distance of Philly.

The 1031 exchange will allow you to sell in FL and buy another type of investment real estate any where else in the country.  

While the current fiscal trajectory of the country certainly has some issues, this is generally referred to in finance as the “risk-free” rate—and the main economic alternative to mortgage bonds.

You can do it for sure, but it's not going to be anything like managing your one property.And you've chosen probably the most difficult market in the country to do this in.Yes 25% was WAY high in this market.

In 2022 the rents increased 12.1% year over year which was the 3rd highest in the entire country per https://www.axios.com/local/cleveland/2023/02/14/cleveland-rent-prices.

You will need to pay income tax in the US and your home country based on any profit you make.

This country was built with self employeed people.

In fact a 1940s ranch isn't even "old" in many parts of the country.

I can, for roughly the same price go to beaches, major cities, other countries, etc.I also think that, generally, STRs are not like a one off way to build wealth.