There are a few routes to try. 

I have yet to do my first deal, I know it takes hard work, but they made it seem easier and better than going the normal route and than what it actually takes to get your first deal or at least started.

If you're going the live in flip route - one great option would be to go with a low money down owner occupied loan to fund your next purchase.

Did you go this route and if so, how did you fare? 

- Does it make more sense to go the DSCR loan route instead?

What would be my best route to take if we need additional finances?

Assuming you go the DSCR route, your mortgage payment will probably be more like $19k at least...but your loan is using an 80% LTV, which is higher than most lenders I work with, I usually see 75% LTV.Sorry to be peppering you with numbers, but depending on what you're looking for in return, this appears to be a very marginal deal.

Could these waits be mitigated by going the hard/private money route?

If meaningful appreciation is on the horizon, its a different story.If you were to go the financing route, blanket loan may be your best bet through small local bank or alternative lender.

Initially, I was focused on multifamily properties, but after doing more research and considering that I will be making Florida my primary residence, I believe that house hacking or short-term rentals (STR) may be the ideal route for me.i still will own my Southern California home; shift it to secondary.