I've read up on the benefits and drawbacks of real estate investing and have decided to take the leap forward towards that goal. 

This is because you can theoretically knock that one out sooner, and then put even greater force against the next highest balance until you've eventually got them all paid off - which is a great goal.

Do your cash flow projections include set asides for CAPEX?

Negotiation means to adjust our goals so we can get the same results.

I initially set out with the goal of house hacking a Multi-family property, I quickly came to learn that not only does my area not have many MFH, but the ones we do have are way out of my budget. 

lease option type of set up to with the down payment as a non refundable option payment.sounds like a big enough project the buyer is probably substantial and real.. 

But, moving forward, while I'm still contemplating property in Florida, I'm thinking out-of-state investing (Georgia and the Carolinas, in particular) will be a better play for my investing goals.

They're no longer projecting cuts for at least the remainder of the year.

I have pulled a few permits here and have done some larger projects.

Really depends on your long term goals.