Even if you're in a local 50+ league and want to be competitive, a coach is probably over-kill.

What problems do you face as investors that still lack good solutions?

We fire them for lack of communication and lack of aligning with our core values.

Southwest Florida is definitely an exciting (but competitive) market, so props to you for diving in!

Include them even though they aren’t your competition. 

All 3 parts are critical to being successful here and we’ve been doing it with todays prices, todays competition and todays interest rates.  

With a competitive landscape for all types of real estate I had a very difficult time finding opportunities where the price and numbers looked good, and the seller was motivated enough to carry a note.

Some of these renters are capitalizing on low interest rates and choosing to buy, but many are unable to buy due to lack of down payment or credit factors. 

While competition hadn't changed dramatically, we noticed some of the competition had pushed up rents on other 3 and 4 BRs in the area.  

The only instance where it might be more beneficial to do it this way vs. getting financing right off the bat is if you need to be SUPER competitive with your offers in your market.