I personally would never ever invest in another market that I can’t drive to within 1/2 a day on my first investment.

GO DRIVE A TRUCK IRL.

Prince Georges county in MD also offers over the counter liens.

You could drive by their place to see what the area is like and what's going on.

Freddie has similar intricacies, but also does not require a two year history of receipt; https://guide.freddiemac.com/app/guide/section/5306.4If you can use the rental income to drive the DTI down so that you can reduce the down payment similar to that of the FHA product, the benefits of the conventional option will outweigh the FHA option, as I'm assuming you have a strong FICO based on rate quoted with no points.  

Thanks for the insight and detailed walk thru of your experience.

It is possible, but you have to put in the work; driving for dollars, mailer campaigns, cold calling, building lists, etc.  

The permits are basically over the counter and approved in 3 days..

Plus, the population growth and job market around Tampa keep driving rental stability, making it a solid choice for both cash flow and long-term equity.

Drive around and figure out a few areas you would like to live in with your budget.