I find their competitive set tool which finds comparable buildings based on actual data, quite helpful too in terms of vetting deals and providing proof of concept. 

First thing you want to do is start building your network of people who can assist you in getting deals done and then find a good mentor.

You are in TX so you have the ability to buy decent turnkey new builds in San Antonio right now, with less cash flow up front, but hopefully scalable appreciation.

For me, if it works financially to keep the property AND it is in an area that will appreciate well, I'm keeping it as a rental.It sounds like someone is going to have to compromise in your relationship. 

To me, you'll have to try 2-3 months and run through an underwriting exercise of a building/properties about 10 times on each one to understand the true pros/cons of each model.

Pricelabs is important, but right now, the most important thing is for you to spend time in Gulf Shores establishing trust and relationships with local vendors.

Specifically, I am focused on wholesaling as a way to build enough capital to start investing in SFR/multifamily with a buy and hold strategy.

It's an audience building tool that can also send customized DMs in any FB group to a curated list of people. 

The owner (or you) will also need to have commercial STR insurance on the building. 

I intend to build a home that will be rented out to offset the costs of ownership.I can find construction to permanent loans on second homes easily.