Your plan is to be worth nothing so if you get sued you only lose the property.

I need a plan for the refinance, and an emergency funds. 

I’m planning to initiate an STR in this locality and would love to join the community.

(FYI, We are trying to build a small (5 to 6 properties), high quality portfolio in the next 5 years, planning on putting 25-30% down)The investment opportunity in question is a new build, single-family home with a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom layout, accompanied by a 2-car garage, located in the neighborhood of Wesley Chapel, FL.

Or are you more concerned about cashflow after retirement and have no plans to leave your W2?

I was planning on starting smaller and working my way up to multi-family.

Are you planning on holding those long term? 

Complete your BP profile - Be as detailed and specific as possible when mentioning your future plans, current operation/experience level, ongoing projects, etc.

I'd start with plans not a general contractor or HIC contractor.

Sounds like a tax planning opportunity for you and your tax pro.