If you can find/know an experienced contractor, they should be able to navigate the insurance process with you.  

Being a California resident can be a trick when navigating LLCs with due to the franchise tax.

Like any other real estate market, Melbourne has challenges that only an experienced buyer’s agent will know and be able to navigate.

Some ideas I have are:1) Hard money: Not ideal but would allow for me to purchase the property go through appropriate zoning and then refi.2) Use online mortgage company: More removed from the details and less likely to raise a concern over the zoning.3) Subject-To purchase: Need to connect with the ownerWould appreciate and insight on how to best navigate this situation!

Explain that you have the skills and knowledge to help them navigate the selling process and get the best possible price for their home.3.

As someone who works with out-of-state investors on a regular basis, I have a lot of experience helping people navigate the challenges of investing from a distance.

That HomeStyle loan needs a MINIMUM of 30 days...and that's if your lender is good at navigating all the paperwork your contractors have to complete. 

Lead magnets directed at a specific distress type Ex: The comprehensive guide to successfully navigating the probate process in X county.

I just don't see how a remote investor/landlord could reliably navigate this (link below).   

This way you know that they themselves have experience on both ends of the process and can help guide you more with better mortgage planning to navigate the market your trying to invest in.