They charge a lot more $/sq ft for this privilege, and personally I dont find the return to justify it.So maybe check out Little Havana, Design District, or another tourist area that's not on the beach itself. 

What is the going interest rate (understand it is negotiable but is it usually above conventional rate or below?)

If they do the closing they will charge some set amount.

I want to actively work towards my deal as fast as possible but i'm unsure if I'll exactly be able to qualify for a conventional loan with my lower score and lack of a full time job.

Charge it.

Although I would love to try house hacking, it’s just not doable for us at this time.We are also very interested in commercial investments and possibly boat and rv storage down the road, but the focus now is just getting going.With that being said, I’m not sure we have the ability right now to take complete charge over an entire rehab project.

I'm mostly curious about:- What to charge tenants that are paying between $650 - $800/month for rent?

If the landlord did the clean up himself he is only entitled to charge you for material.

Assuming you have equity and you qualify for a conventional Fannie/Freddie loan then yes you can.You should also call the small local banks and credit unions in your area as they can be more competitive.

Plus, most places charge extra for pets, so I suppose they shouldn't have been too shocked.