House Hack, getting started on first property.

A high yield savings is a good start. 

If it is not in the scope the contractor will provide a quotation for the work and is not allowed to start the work until you approve the change order in writing with the defined and agreed upon price and terms. 

One of the things we do to circumvent this problem is to start earlier. 

I'd consider starting with letters then perhaps following up with a few rounds of postcards.

We're looking to start investing in Florida with a motivation of snow-birding at some point. 

On the flip side, if I keep the property and rent for the above values, I would be paying off the debt every month from the income, essentially making me debt free due to the payments being covered, and I keep the asset, which will start cash flowing a lot once debt is gone. 

- We often have clients wait weeks to send us funds, then expect us to start the next day.

Where do I start to talk with someone about investing and what would make sense on paper for me to do this deal? 

Good luck and congrats on getting started.