if you don't have that relationship you need to get on site as often as possible to ensure things are going well or hire a local property manager to oversee things for you and then rent it out for you.

Another option is to find a good local architect, civil engineer, or similiar third party consultant to take a look at it and let you know their thoughts on the viability of developing it. 

Also, stay tuned to the BiggerPockets Podcast and try to attend your local REI meetups to build up a strong network.

Still doing my "market research" using Brandon Turner's tips from The Book on Rental Property Investing but I would love to talk to someone local about their experiences and recommendations.Thanks in advance!

@Rami KhaldiThe best way to find people in your area is to attend local meetups.

Your state and local law may have some mandates that you must follow regarding treatment of those funds.

.- Huge car buff who loves to go to the local meets and interact with other car enthusiasts.

Could someone either give me an estimate of average lifecycle for common components of a house within Florida, or recommend any local contractors that could give me an affordable inspection report?

If you are open to a partnership reach out to local investors in the area.

[2021] - Kitchen Countertops (countertopadvisor.com)For us, we look at comps in the local area where the house is.