Immediately went to work with a large scale transformation including tenant management (evictions), capital improvements including roof, interior/exterior painting, landscaping, elevator, construction of leasing office, community outreach and many more items.  

I've heard widely varying views on opposite ends of the spectrum--everything from "rates will go back down to 2021 levels in the next 12 months" to "rates will continue to go up significantly for the next 12 months, and will remain elevated for 5+ years"What do you think, and why?

It definitely makes sense to be disciplined when you’re nearing the end of the cycle , prices are very elevated & rates are at historical lows. 

What I know about the market in the area is: If it has an ohana unit attached to the house (a duplex with a studio (the ohana could be build below the elevated house in this example) and a larger segment of the house, in this example the 3-2 that is already built), it's a money maker for buy-and-hold, and a hot item on any homebuyers list.I won't be able to purchase anything until May of 2021 in order to honor my agreement for primary occupancy of my current condo.

He came recommended to me through my real estate agent and an elevator company that wants to sell me an elevator for my home.

There is sloping terrain to the lake on both east and west sides however, I have found some log homes are built to sloping elevations. 

Also, Elevation Capital that invests in mobile homes and storage takes 1031 money and their fund is open.

I know most investors/flippers think interior design services can be expensive and out of budget, but I believe it can help transform a property and easily elevate it to or above market value without going over budget.

i recently checked out a place moving in was going to be 4800 but no elevator, my realtor told me he has something cheaper with elevator but the move in cost in higher (7200). is this reasonable and why do you think it cost so much more???

Insurance thoughts - see if your family member has 1) Florida Wind Mitigation(in last 5 years) and 2) 4 Point inspection (preferably in last 6 months) and 3) Elevation Certificate (not matter age) or flood policy if they have one.