Start by reading the Ultimate Real Estate Investing Guide: https://www.biggerpockets.com/guides/ultimate-real-estate-investing-guide/introduction2.

If you don't have the funds to provide proof, get a hard money lender to issue one for the property you are offering.

So, in Florida there beneficial but there going to be bought and payed for by the homeowner (you). 

I have goals of obtaining enough MF property to replace my current career by the age of 50 (I'm actually shooting for $6K/m by November of 2026 because, why not?)

Generally speaking, they will not play by your rules, take kindly to rent increases, and will be difficult.

I’ll definitely be more assertive with this strategy, as it's important for us to stand out positively among the competition by offering a high-quality service that really makes a difference. 

By leveraging market knowledge and strategic partnerships, we turned a modest investment into a profitable transaction.

A general credit line, on the other hand, could be secured by other assets or unsecured, and doesn't necessarily involve your home equity.HELOC Characteristics: - Uses your home as collateral - Usually has a lower interest rate than unsecured credit lines - Typically has a variable interest rate - Allows you to borrow up to a certain limit, repay, and borrow again during the draw period - Can be used for various purposes, including home improvements, debt consolidation, or as an emergency fund While it's possible to use a HELOC for RE investing or rehab projects, some lenders may be hesitant about this use.

In addition to Noah Bacon's suggestion Start with Strategy by Dave Meyer, I'll give a shameless plug to the BiggerPockets Money podcast.

It's definitely not a college town by any means.