I've learned the hard way to value of a good PM and I have no desire to independently manage them remotely.

Hardly any at all. 

I am trying to find a hard money lender who will lend on a property that is owner occupied.

Especially in Florida when every year (almost) they suffer this kind of threats.As a flipper its very hard to find insurance company that will be ready to cover your house.As a home owner for rental: How much will the insurance company will cover in case of total disaster like this?

It is hard to judge appreciation in a duplex. 

Money doesn't ask about sexuality when it changes hands.I know I'd be considered a completely sexist jerk to give the same advice to a young woman interested in this, find a good guy to be with, but the numbers are really hard to argue with.

I've attempted to indulge in several investing strategies, such as seller financing, and hard money lending.

It would be hard for a tenant to argue they never got it considering they are on the site periodically to make payments.

Work hard to get promoted at your job, save/invest more of your income, about enough so that it pinches you. 

I've looked at hard money no doc loans. but 1.) seems a shame to go that route when I have so much equity and credit score of 830 and 2.) it's EXPENSIVE and leaves little room for profit.