We've also discussed the fact that these are all optional, cosmetic things that if don't fit in the budget, simply won't be done or will be done at a later date on my own when I get around to it.

I would suggest interviewing multiple mentors/coaches and see which one is the best fit.  

Columbus sounds like it would be a better fit for you.

Keep in mind that every real estate investment experience is different and that there is no one-size-fits-all strategy.

Don’t overthink it and get in where you fit in. 

Make sure your decor fits the theme of your area, or at the very least don't have anything that is in conflict.

Florida video voyeurism law:810.145 Video voyeurism(1) As used in this section, the term:(c) “Place and time when a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy” means a place and time when a reasonable person would believe that he or she could fully disrobe in privacy, without being concerned that the person’s undressing was being viewed, recorded, or broadcasted by another, including, but not limited to, the interior of a residential dwelling, bathroom, changing room, fitting room, dressing room, or tanning booth.(2) A person commits the offense of video voyeurism if that person:(a) For his or her own amusement, entertainment, sexual arousal, gratification, or profit, or for the purpose of degrading or abusing another person, intentionally uses or installs an imaging device to secretly view, broadcast, or record a person, without that person’s knowledge and consent, who is dressing, undressing, or privately exposing the body, at a place and time when that person has a reasonable expectation of privacy;(b) For the amusement, entertainment, sexual arousal, gratification, or profit of another, or on behalf of another, intentionally permits the use or installation of an imaging device to secretly view, broadcast, or record a person, without that person’s knowledge and consent, who is dressing, undressing, or privately exposing the body, at a place and time when that person has a reasonable expectation of privacy; or(c) For the amusement, entertainment, sexual arousal, gratification, or profit of oneself or another, or on behalf of oneself or another, intentionally uses an imaging device to secretly view, broadcast, or record under or through the clothing being worn by another person, without that person’s knowledge and consent, for the purpose of viewing the body of, or the undergarments worn by, that person.(5) This section does not apply to any:(a) Law enforcement agency conducting surveillance for a law enforcement purpose;(b) Security system when a written notice is conspicuously posted on the premises stating that a video surveillance system has been installed for the purpose of security for the premises;(c) Video surveillance device that is installed in such a manner that the presence of the device is clearly and immediately obvious; It sounds like the OP's situation may not be covered.

Go after your "why" and what will work for your family, remember this is not a one size fits all journey, everyone's looks different.

higher rates, but sounds like it fits your situation.

Then start learning and looking for an RE investment that fits that model.