The idea of taking the monthly cash over the lump sum can be a better choice, but not in all cases.  1 - Let's start with the question of how old a person is, and how long they will be taking that $50/month, or $600/year. 

What should my next steps be?

For example, you can deduct mortgage interest, property taxes, operating expenses, depreciation, and sometimes even travel expenses related to property management.

Business Line of Credit and 0% Credit cards.. search for Fund And Grow and Plastiq on this forum and there are some very innovative ways of doing it ..but there is a  caveat..you have to be very very sure of the flip succeeding

Victor - be sure and check out Lowes.

Buyers are out there, and with fewer investors jumping in due to concerns, there's less competition snagging those good deals.If you're considering moving forward, connecting with someone who knows the Tampa scene inside and out could be a game-changer.

Does black make sense here, or would another color or treatment work better?

If you consistently analyze properties, recognizing a good deal will be much easier when it shows up.

If location isn't a big factor (does not seem to be based on original post) I would highly recommend looking into building a barndonium or shouse in an an area where you can get a tract of land fairly inexpensive and has little zoning regs and requirements.

Once my zoning variance was granted, I expected getting the building permit would be straightforward.