The majority landlord tenant relationships don't end this way, but if does, you're prepared.Let your tenants know how you handle emergencies.  

Ideally I would like to be within 30 minutes of Apopka.Thanks in advance:)Hello Tram,Welcome to the world of REI in this crazy market of Orlando that we real estate pros have a love/hate, but mostly love relationship with.I'm a local agent and have worked with a few investors who lived in an investment property and the best advice that I can give you is to find neighbourhoods where you will feel comfortable living first, then look for a suitable investment properties in those neighbourhoods.

Do you advise allowing the tenants to remain on a month-to-month arrangement in order to make sure they are good tenants and the relationship will work?

But in this situation you've already started off the relationship on a negative note. 

It eventually led to a great relationship (and opportunities).

I would like to get a good relationships with my tenants, meet them and wouldnt mind accepting section 8.

In this past year we maintained a honest and caring business relationship with Betsy and John, always making sure to help as much as we could in regards to keeping up with their property and simply making sure that we were good tenants.

I’d welcome any insights the community here might have on investing in and better evaluating the Stark and Summit County markets.I’m looking forward to meeting new people, making some great relationships, and giving back to the community as I continue to learn and gain experience! 

We want to start the relationship on an honest note, to build trust.Next, your 2nd sentence contains "has the potential, and the neighborhood does too".    

Just make sure you can handle being in business with friends and it doesn't ruin the relationship.