I can feel your frustration, I can see the hard position it puts you in but if Florida's building materials prices are anything like here in Oregon, a 15% isn't as horrible as I'd expect. 

Lender will want to see income of last 2 years tax returns, W2 vs 1099 is not as material.

Also, with materials being so expensive right now, how are Investors making a profit?

Appraisal invoice should have been sent to you for payment after signing your initial loan package which you should have received within the first week, 10 days max.Typical close time with an actual mortgage banker, not a bank, is 21-30 days depending on who you’re working with.

They were using it as storage for material on another house they were working on.

The latest project I am about to embark on is pulling out the existing vinyl tile on the shower/tub wall and replacing it with new tile.Question for BP: as a Landlord, what is the best type of backsplash material for a shower/tub project?

 It also gets tricky with materials. 

Constructions costs and material costs are higher than national average.

I usually buy a package on WI legal blank and have tenants sign them.

Short-term cash flow: Less homes will be constructed in the next few years if raw materials skyrocket.