The property would be in Florida as that is where I live. 

Anyone can live anywhere they want if they have the money, and sometimes houses are bought and then rented out without much background checking on the people moving in.

I guess I could do some work-arounds -- maybe reserve one unit in the first purchase for use as an AirBnb, and reserve my own time in it when needed - instead of claiming it as a primary.Are either of you (or anyone) familiar with a finance product/loan that will allow me to purchase under $150,000 (w/ strong credit) and do much of my own work and live-in a portion as a primary residence?  

I renovated the home while 3 of my friends lived with me and paid my mortgage.

For example, if one is looking to buy in PA but lives in NJ, is the typical process to inquire with banks local to the property in PA or is it normal for NJ banks to approve out-of-state?

Did you read Lend to Live?

I live in Fl. where insurance is pretty costly but I am also investing in states where insurance seems less expensive.

I live in Charlotte and would prefer a multi-family investment property that is within a 3-4 hour drive so I'm considering areas that include: Charlotte, Raleigh / Research Triangle, Charleston, and Atlanta.

Ive owned a 3 family in Fitchburg MA for 4 years that has done exceptionally well with it, living for free in one unit for a while and constantly upgrading the property over the years.

**For context I house hacked for about a year after she passed away but couldn't live in that house anymore and sold it.