Especially considering zoning approvals, permits for land development (Local and State) moving equipment in, then permits for individual houses before you can even sell or market.  

If often more that they are abandanoning the property to the government because there is some type of constraint, i.e. there is a street light oddly placed in the middle front part of the parcel, there is a creek or wash (which means environmental permits would be needed), there is lack of true legal access, zoning problems, etc. 

I believe that the best way for me to grow in this field is by connecting with both experienced real estate investors and fellow newcomers.

There are only certain zone codes where STRs are permitted as a non owner occupant.

If you are looking for a 8-bed facility, then you will need to get a permit for zoning as this would be considered a commercial property. 

Pull a building permit.

The land consists of 9 acres, 1100 feet of creek and two waterfalls, many great trails and even a pedestrian bridge we built ourselves (permitted).

We looked for a house, str permited, no hoa or low hoa in Sarasota area since October- couldn’t really find anything decent.  

This section relates only to a fee, charge, or other sum of money required to be paid under the lease if rent is not paid and does not affect the landlord's right to terminate the lease or take other action permitted by the lease or other law.

@Jack Bailin: I will check the zoning for you but as long as 4 family is permitted in the zone, the use will be permitted without the necessity of a special permit or a variance.