I've been taking in so much info that I'm in the analysis paralysis phase but I'm curious how someone more seasoned would get the ball rolling with just $50k cash today. 

The city focuses on large impact projects like this.

If you are looking to be more active, there are great opportunities out there for value add on multifamily whether that be raising rents or light rehab projects.

managed the entire project from beginning to end, the investor never stepped foot in the house - happy investor What was the outcome?

Before going into this, though I would be very conservative in your analysis of cost to renovate and what you think market rent (along with increases in taxes and insurance) would be so that once you are ready to refi into a longer term loan, your DSCR is rock solid and so is your cash. 

This could help generate additional income and attract a broader range of tenants.3.Partner with a nonprofit organization: Some nonprofit organizations specialize in affordable housing development and may be interested in partnering with you on this project.

making many vacation rentals highly lucrative and with strong C.O.C. return projections of 10-25%. - Furniture & Decor  Roughly half of the STR's clients have acquired the past two years have been sold furnished.

Are you looking for something that's turn-key or are you looking for a rehab project that you can turn into a rental?

Was projected to gross $100k a year before Ian hit. 

I would say regardless of if you get a deal here the value from going thru this analysis is worth it!