Having a solid financial plan will make the buying process smoother.By using your contracting experience and getting involved in the local real estate community, you’ll be set up for success in finding and flipping properties. 

I would buy an investment property with more money down for you, let them live there and manage it, and add their "rent" to an ownership stake over time.

However, you need to learn about it specially the legal aspect behind it so you comply with the SEC but yes, it is possible you can buy properties without using your money.

I dont have the capital to buy it.

What is driving the Florida market is simply it is too unaffordable for someone to buy a home here.I am based in Bradenton, FL (Manatee County).

Why are investors not buying these up?

Appreciation, and this quote by David Greene really stood out:"Everyone I have ever talked to has always said: Location, Location, Location... buy in the right area, with the right schools... the appreciation you get will trump any bit of cashflow that you thought was important, and you won't have the headaches."

I don't want to sell because I buy properties that perform that I like.

Me, my partner, and our CTO are building a platform that utilizes AI for all people to sell and buy homes.

Once you identify this, it will be easier to decide what investment you should buy.