If you are still at $300k you will not be in the pretty section which is close to the beaAnch.Andrew I can go upto 425 I think but only in OctoberWhat is your opinion of Ruskin as an alternative to Bradenton? 

Alternatively you could use Section 179 expensing here as well, but the expensing can't create a loss for the rental and may be carried forward.

Anyone know some good alternatives that are similar?

LTRs are usually a 'safer' play, particularly if this is your first real estate investment property.

Where/what platform do my fellow investors like to acquire alternate assets?

The income from the property pays off the debt, while you get the tax deductions, equity build up and appreciation.As to why people pay cash, many don't know, like or understand other alternative investments. 

A simpler alternative would be a t bill or short term Treasury fund, such as SNSXX if you want the same liquidity as a high-yield savings account.

Is an alternative arrangement where the builder builds at a discounted rate, and then the investor handles selling the property + gets all profit?

Alternatively, if there is a real estate agent/ Agency that anyone recommends, please let me know.  

(don't think we have time or knowledge to pursue that) . alternatively the lender has asked us to work with a commercial lender.. we have not done any commercial loans so far, but basic research provides core diff is the 30 yrs vs shorter duration 10-15yrs in commercial + ARM (floating).