If anyone can give me any type of direction or advice on a possible solution to this nightmare I am in, I would greatly appreciate it. 

My question, would you do your first deal in a town you don't reside in? I

You'll get a wealth of REI knowledge and learn how to take full advantage of Bigger Pockets (including how to connect with other Florida investors).Listen to the podcasts , get active on the forums & set up key word alerts to be notified when people are discussing topics you're interested in. I

You were open to hearing about other models and I think that is where other discussion came in.  I

My mortgage broker was telling me it would be okay to call whatever purchase I make my primary residence even if I don't plan to move in. Is

Count me in. I

We are rehabbing 4-6 at a time, but we get so many leads it is becoming hard for me to go and see every property we get in.  I

What part of Florida are you in? I

But this is a very good post, thanks for sharing and congrats and jumping in, I love to see posts like these.

A rising tide raised all boats but if your boat has a small leak...The best way is to look at each NHBD and the property type you are investing in.  I