And yes, the reason for obtaining my license is to be able to look at and make offers on properties on my own.

If I were to obtain an 80k HELOC but not use any of the funds, how would that affect my DTI levels?  

Another thought is to work on obtain business credit apart from your personal credit. 

Do not over pay for a property to obtain seller financing, financing doesn't add value to the property and that puts you further behind in trying to obtain equity to refinance.

I will get any certifications but none are required by the state at this time.  

If the old owner collected deposit you will need to collect the deposit from  old owner.With the old lease I had no deposit collected so I obtained one.I also had to raise the rent the old number was based on the value from 5 years back, prices have gone up sharply since then.You need to do a walk thought inspect what is going on, do they have pets are they smoking etc.

HelloWas hoping to connect with or obtain a few local lenders in Destin Santa Rosa beach areas that are familiar with condotels? 

Here are the terms and fees:  12% - 14% interest only payments3 to 5 points origination (depends on location)Appraisal Fee: $425 – $550 (dependent upon location and independent appraiser’s fee)Inspection Fee: $100 - $150 / inspectionLoan Documents: $475Loan Admin Fee: $500Credit Report Fee: $30 ($35 for Joint)Flood Certificate Fee: $15Monthly Servicing Fee: $15 A mortgagee’s title policy is required.An insurance policy is required on all loans for the term of the loan.Up to 70% of the After Repaired Value (excluding points & fees), not to exceed 100% of cost.6 month term3 month optional extension (extension fees may apply)While these fees can be significant on the front end, it can save you money on the back end.

The cost of the house would be $500-600K to obtain, so it's not cheap.  

As my partners are foreign, they will not be able to obtain financing here in the US so the mortgage will be in my personal name.