Do you want one you can put some work into or prefer rent-ready/turnkey?

Is there a preferred expense management tool for beginner investors?

Not sure how good that book is if it didn't make it clear that you should get your finances ready (ie. establish a savings pattern and develop a relationship with your preferred Lender) first!

I'd prefer some kind of pool to draw from if and when the damage is caused.

@Kirsten Braddock  It's a matter of preference and also depends on your set up. 

Looking in the $200-$250k range, preferably SW Florida, as close to oceanfront as possible due to increased rental potential.

I prefer after expense metrics like ROI or CAP rate. 

There are some great fun towns outside of CA of course, but depends on your lifestyle preference (and weather tolerance) as to whether or not it'd be worth the move.

With new homes the builders prefer you get a mortgage through them so they make profit from selling and your mortgage. 

Hi, This exactly is my preferred method.