I would prefer St Croix over St Thomas.

Nick...this is another question where the answer is as personal as the type of underwear you prefer. ;-)  Consider forming a partnership like a marriage.

However, most investors who have the kind of cash you have to invest prefer to leverage the property that they will be purchasing, so that they can build a portfolio of buy and hold properties for example.

Everyone has a very different opinion and honestly it is whatever your preference and comfort zone.

This comes down to your goals and investment preferences. 

They sometimes have one that they prefer and as long as that title company is reputable...it's all good. 

They do however you prefer you are a "member" as it pertains to Credit Union.

I really prefer a SFH or townhouse.

I've looked into RUBS/sub-metering companies, as my preference would be to have a 3rd party handle the billing for utilities (I heard about this on a BP podcast, and it sounded awesome).  

I recommend minimum 4 coats with poly.  2 seal coats with buffing between and 2 final coats  You can use water base as  well if you prefer, finishing will dry faster allowing for more coats.