Consider using an FHA loan to secure a 1–4 unit property with just 3.5% down and take advantage of tax benefits by living there for at least two years.

The area has certain advantages like shelter from regulation risk (pretty much as low as anywhere in the country if you buy in the approved STR tourist zones) and long term security (people aren't going to stop going to Orlando anytime soon). 

I know that the general guidance is that emergency funds aren't to be invested, but given our financial security and the fact that we already have a personal e-fund in a safe, non-volatile location, would it still be crazy/unwise to invest this 15k in an S&P500 index fund in a brokerage? 

Loan Security: The property will serve as collateral for the seller-financed loan.

I see people without capital no experience or capital being taught to “help” desperate homeowners by tying up their property in a contract they have no way to successfully close without finding someone to pay more; costing the homeowner behind on their mortgage payments to lose valuable time that can easily lead to foreclosure; I see a program taught to students to take over a property ‘subject to”, leaving the seller unable to qualify for further mortgage financing, responsible for a loan secured by a property he no longer owns, and all held together by someone with 0 experience, limited or no capital, and no liability.  

In both cases to keep things clean for underwriting at the bank I used my HELOC to secure the mortgage. 

Maybe if you had a good, secure location to store things you could pre-order stuff you think you might need for your next project(s) and stockpile it.

Its market-ready condition and strong local demand made it ideal for a fast, profitable transaction, aligning perfectly with Partner Driven’s strategy of securing high-yield properties in promising locations.

You've definitely come to the right place to find resources and connections.Here, you'll find several knowledgeable and experienced agents who can help guide you in securing the right property.

With the future being so uncertain I realized there was a need to do more than just rely on my job for financial security.