If I were you, I'd looking the surrounding cities of Greenville; ie.

  $20k is the amount I'd recommend to have in just reserves for owning two properties. 

If the water heater gets the water warm but not hot, I can't imagine it's anything other than the dial needing to be turned up. 

I'd stay away from Florida for now.

I'd avoid them. 

I will have a property or 3 that I've located,  found owner negotiating seller terms,   knowing I don't have the credit or capital or network for sourcing either,   I'd go to sites or platforms that want partners for 50 50 deals..   

I'd like to share my story so as to help other avoid this pitfall. 

So, I'd like to get some thoughts on approach... 

I imagine lenders won't loan up to the desired LTV (ie: 70-75%).

At that point I'd just be banking on the loan paydown and hoping for appreciation.