It sounds like you already have a property you own and are thinking of converting it into a house hack, this is an awesome idea!

I am not sure that investing in these areas is a good idea right now given my little knowledge of how the City of Jacksonville deals with these developments. 

If you play with a free trial of Property Management Software (Appfolio Buildium Propertyware) you will have a great idea of what to expect and what you need to learn once you access Yardi.I would suggest you go ahead and apply for the job or start as a temp for a company that specializes in placing property management workers.

It's called buy and hold for a reason.

Consider:How long you plan to hold each propertyYour exit strategy (sell or refinance?)

But the damage to the blinds and the cost of removing trash definitely justify holding back some of the deposit.As for the documentation, it’s a good idea to provide a detailed accounting statement along with receipts for any repairs or replacement items.

Any tips, videos or ideas anyone could suggest to help us make our first move possibly a step towards investing in real estate? 

Investment Info:Large multi-family (5+ units) buy & hold investment.

That could be a way to at least make some $ from it while you're basically required to hold it. $600/yr in taxes seems like a low amount for a developer to not want to pay in order to acquire an extra plot of land that would enhance their space lol. 

A house that makes an idea rental is often different than ones that makes the ideal forever home.