There's no step by step guide but there are key things : Learn: RE strategies, what interests you, what do people in your area need.Connect: find a mentor, accountability group and be around those doing what you want to do.Help: solve problems- do people need dealflow, property mgmt, construction expertise, etc. 

I have issues with numbers all the time here, mostly to do with impending property tax increases, so it would be nice to know this too.

im looking to get into a house hack in either there or venice, or even palmetto, still just looking but would like to be educated when i do decide to make the move, any tips are appreciated, also if you need any help let me know!

With your Fico and down payment, all you need to do is make sure you pass the debt to income requirements. 

One of my connections will fund the rehab for less and give it all to us on the upfront to finish the project at a lower cost.

Quote from @Fernando Martin-Gullans: Hey y’all, I’m a retail investor with 2 SFH rentals worth a combined ~$650k looking to utilize some of my stored equity to buy more out-of-state properties, but I’m not quite sure how best to proceed given that my interest rates are incredibly low (leaning me away from refinancing) and neither property is owner-occupied (which I believe prevents me from using a HELOC).

A lead magnet is a powerful way to capture their attention.Examples of Lead Magnets:“Free Guide: 5 Ways to Sell Your Home Fast Without a Realtor.”

Always here to help.

Given the circumstances, I’m unsure whether to proceed or back out of the contract.

Talk to a realtor.