If the higher insurance rates are a concern for you I suggest staying away from the high rises for now.We are surrounded by multiple military bases so there is always someone buying, selling or looking for rentals in our area and surrounding areas.

Which loan would you suggest that will allow me to keep this a rental property from the beginning?

The whole point (generally, at least) is to have a simple, "passive" portfolio.

The rent would likely increase as new developments in the area add more expensive units but comps are all suggesting 1500 for a similar size updated SFH 

I suggest joining the Greater Orlando Real Estate Investor Association in Altamonte, you can meet a number of investors and wholesalers there.

Keep it simple.  

Step one in optimizing your listing might be to set up a simple website with a landing page, event calendar and blog so you can become the hub of information for people traveling to that area. 

Can you suggest the best places to go for someone who is new to this?

Hi Jonathan, This looks like a great candidate for a simple fix & flip/hold refinance loan if you are OK refinancing out of the current loan you have.

As easy as this sounds, it's not simple and usually like pulling teeth.