This sounds complex, and if the conclusion you're coming to is mortgage fraud, I would not recommend it. 

- Are there other lenders you’d recommend for refinancing rental properties that might have a smoother process or better terms?

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

If you're working with an investment brokerage, I'd recommend tapping into Tampa and Central Florida markets too—areas like Riverview, Wesley Chapel, and Brandon have been strong for both flips and long-term holds with steady demand.

I'd recommend attending investor meet ups.

For jacksonville I would highly recommend Elenis at Thirdstone Properties. 

I recommend that you contact a lawyer to setup this process for you.  

What I found with Airbnb's pricing is consistent with the above- their recommendations are for lower pricing (and not in the host's best interests).

Others recommend tools like Stessa or Buildium to track actual costs and project future expenses. 

At the current scenario, without knowing anything about you or your properties I will recommend either to look at a loan from your assets using DSCR loan.