I do understand your given scenario as I have been in contract with 2 properties in Daytona beach, FL in which I ended up pulling out after inspections but insurance was an added factor as well. 

Of particular interest will be the revisions (if any) to the January report, which blew expectations out of the water and helped send average mortgage rates back above 7%.Current odds on Fed rate cuts at upcoming FOMC meetings:May 1: 7% (up from 4% last week)Jun 12: 69% (up from 64% last week)July 31: 82% (from 78% last week)Note: These probabilities (which come from CME Group) are implied from the real-time prices of different Fed Funds futures contracts.

There is alot to read here on lending issues, you need to understand that as a lender your interest in the collateral will always be as a lender and not an owner unless your borrower gives you the deed to cancel the debtThe best place for a new lender to start, IMO, is not in making seconds as gap financing but as a transactional lender, funding closings and getting your money immediately in compliance with any usuary law that may apply. :)

I understand your excitement about taking the plunge into real estate investing.

Yes, I understand that part.

Continue to refine your understanding of the market.

My goal is to establish a well-rounded portfolio of rental properties that not only promise financial growth but also offer value and sustainability to communities.I’m particularly keen on understanding the nuances of different real estate markets, effective property management techniques, and strategies for making informed investment decisions.

I understand its a rental populated area, more a pass-through kind of county.

I do understand the points and interest rate will be higher with a HML but it is more important to get my first deal done and learn from that then to need the biggest return I can get.

I understand your excitement about taking the plunge into real estate investing.