How do I become a co-host with no experience?

House hacking will also give you some personal "property management" experience.

I am curious if anyone on here has experience investing in the Plant City area?

Please share your experiences on some things that worked for you and what didn't work, and also tell me if I am crazy for even entertaining any of this.

Was an awesome experience!

Not a good experience at all.If you want others to compare, check out Baseline and The Mortgage Automator.

Competitive Strategy and Operations: How do you maintain operational competitiveness against larger chains like Wawa, especially in terms of pricing, service speed, and customer experience?

In my experience most states have similar laws, though the specific requirements may be somewhat different. 

In Detroit Area, I consider East English Village, Bagley, Detroit University, to buy first house turn key around 150-200k, than after I gain some experience(~6 month) with just renting, go to the next level of complexity and do BRRRR there with people who I can trust after first deal. 

Plus you'll gain invaluable experience being on the front lines.