I sent certified mail mid september that was returned from the post office. i eventually flew drove down to the property in beginning of October to post eviction notice on garage and front door. i inspected the property that seemed half way abandoned.

With lower rates (mid 5s) I am expecting prices to jump again in spring, as they have done basically every year for the last 15.

They help you find short or mid term clients.

SFR is much more difficult because of taxes, purchase price and rent generate but if you are open minded to a rent by room strategy or mid term rental strategy SFR can look more attractive.  

Mid term and STR is a good option but you will have to furnish it, and do not go on the cheap route from IKEA or something that will break and you will have to replace it again anyway.  

You have an owner occupied loan in the mid 6s today (hopefully lower later).

If you love hospitality and hosting, maybe the Short-term or mid-term route is for you.

Is anyone doing mid-term rentals in the greater Tampa area? 

Be patient. these are mid-term plays, so you must be prepared to go without the cash for several years.

Being so close to the bases, you could make change it at some point from a long-term rental to short-term (for families coming into town) or mid-term (for military contract workers) and that would earn you more.For now, I would keep saving and invest in something else and leave this as it is.