I am open to investing out of state working with a good property manager.

I just listed my first flip project (which turned out beautifully).

First time landlord/self-property manager here, what are my responsibilities when it comes to hiring contractors and giving/ asking for 1099s?

I would just add that some of those lower priced, cash-flow areas will also come with more intensive management requirements.  

How do you typically secure funding for your projects?

I would use profits from rents to pay down as I project a yearly COC return of 12k.My question is, would it be wiser to just use heloc for down payment on property and finance the rest of it with a lender?

Any input would be greatly appreciated.Also, rates for property management in Fl.

Thus, they may charge a much different amount depending on the scope of work for a particular project. 

This will require you to use a property manager, so take that expense into consideration. 

This means to focus your time in the areas that have the greatest value & impact such as how to scale your portfolio vs working in the weeds on things like property management, repairs, rent collection, etc.