Securing legitimate deals is a great first step.

Congrats on owning your first home in North Port, FL and looking to take that next step into long-term rental investing.

My first live-in flip was a distressed 3,600 sqft home, shockingly not old just built in the 90s, but totally shot.

Giving you an opportunity to improve.Let me ask you this and I challenge, dare, triple chicken dare you to note anything in my post that is wrong.I will wait for your reply.I have given you facts of the things that everyone simply does wrong and I took my time to answer your concern educating you so you can take this information and do better, YOURSELF.Here is what you asked:What’s working best for you at this budget?

Because it was a new construction, the land that was built up around the property did not have time to even grow grass, so it was easily washed away.

Take your time, be wise, and time will reward you.

This along with the time of year does make it slower.  

A tax pro will not save you time or effort but they may assist if you're unsure. 

My name is Enzo, I'm 19 years old and I have about $12K on hand, continuing to work full time, and looking to get into real estate and begin building my portfolio ASAP.

This is not something to DIY.I think this is the first option I want to pursue, but I have no experience with owner financing or selling the note down the line.