We work with a multitude of investors in the MF and SFH realm, so I'd be happy to help with any direct questions you have about our success here in Orlando :)

As you know, there are a multitude of sites, wholesalers, realtors that can provide you with potential leads.

The "high" prices in what may appear to be challenged areas reflect a multitude of variables. 

There are a multitude of ways to make money via real estate to pick a strategy that works for you and go deep.

For me personally I would pass just as you did whether I was planning to owner occupy or not, i tend to avoid high crime areas for a multitude of reasons, primarily they present occupancy challenges.I will say that prior to submitting an offer i would research the area you are shopping in and have that information going in. 

There are a multitude of long-term hard money options just with one lender in particular much less across the spectrum of lenders.

I've worked with a multitude of BP investors to do exactly what you're looking to do, refinance a pool of investment properties into a single commercial mortgage.

If a GSE (AKA Government) loan, there a a multitude of repayment options, including putting it on the back of the loan.

Sounds like you need a good Mortgage Broker that can find a multitude of financing options...

There is no forgiveness/cancellation of the multitude of high property taxes that New York housing providers pay.