I suppose I am wondering how to find interested real estate investors in the area or look for interested agents with input into what my best move would be really get the ball rolling

If you're keeping it a separate studio rental and want to maximize the space, then removing it seems to be the right move - and definitely reduces the liability.

So same thing as an agent pick a technique and stick to it.Myself personally when I started as an agent I did not do follow up like I should have but what i did do was become a CLOSESR  If i got in front of them my success rate was very high so thats where I put my energy and my moto was next..If I could not close them first meeting I moved on the next. 

In 2009 I renovated my own apartment and moved out.  

I am a resident physician in dermatology, during  medical school I bought a property in Denver with an Interest rate of 2.75% (COVID rates lol) with the goals of renting it out when I moved onto the residency.

My wife and I have one rental unit and are trying to move toward our next property, but still are trying to learn more and find additional ways to make some side income to speed the process.

Are you looking to "house hack", which is living in the property (or 1 of the units) for at least a year and then moving out and renting the unit?

If your friend is unwilling to pay that then move on.

Buying a condo in Treasure Island could be a great move, but be sure you're prepared for the next hurricane.

The two common ways to get rents up is 1) to move qualified family into the unit for a year 2) perform and extensive rehab such that tenant occupancy is not possible.