Finding contractors in Florida after 2 hurricanes wont be easy or inexpensive 

I would encourage you to read this beginners guide from BiggerPockets, it's a good bit of information so pick and choose what you want to read or read it all.

It seems more your fault for choosing the "lying" contractors from the tenants point of view, if you ask them to pay up, I'm sure they would.

The IRS doesn't trust you to report accurate information, so the 1099 from the property manager is checked against your filing.Any company that does more than $600 in business with you should issue a 1099.

I currently have around 20k cash for a down payment and that is steadily increasing so I want to pull the trigger soon.I'm interested in Fort Wayne for a few reasons:- I have some family in the area (they won't be involved, but have some general knowledge of the area)- Decent schools- Low crime- Airport- Low pricesAny advice or connections are welcome as I am completely new to this.

- value adds add more value in high cost markets.  

The tenant base, on average, tends to be rougher on the properties, moves more frequently, and cannot absorb any rent increases.  

I wonder if you have any experience and insights about Sanford - Deltona - Deland? 

Quote from @Akintunde Aboaba: I’m looking to start investing in real estate this year and would appreciate insights from experienced investors on the best strategies in today’s market.

Curious to hear, how did this end?