We have a couple of friends that live down there within walking distance of Sailfish Marina, in fact, we'll be sitting on the peanut island sandbar here shortly...there's no better place to get some quick R&R and take in the "sights" Florida has to offer.

My good friend reco'd the WP route too...with Aspen stepping in I expect values to rise.

We have good friends who have been Realtors out in Orlando for 20+ years who are helping us look for properties and build our team!

Me and my friends needed our parents to co-sign for our first apartment out of college.

I've not yet done the math to determine which strategy would save me more money, but the big cons of this areNo primary residence, therefore slightly higher interest rates, 20 - 25% down (but depending on the market, this may very well be equivalent to 3.5 - 5% down in LA).Depends on the quality of tenant screening, but it's probably safer to assume that they won't take as great care of the property as I would.Probably need a property manager, professional or tenant.Either strategy seems to net me the same cost around $1,500 monthly, but I'm biased towards Los Angeles as I can rent to friends which solves a lot of the tenant/landlord issues.I'm not looking for anyone to give me all the answers but would appreciate any insight, food for thought, and constructive criticism. 

I have a really good agent friend up there that helps out investors a lot.

I would think about finding a rental that is occupied, when your friend the lender says he/she will agree to give you a loan.

Yes my friend you "provided" the AC unit ....at least that's what the tenant will rightfully say.....and when it needs continous repairs.....somehow the tenant will seem to think you are responsible.And let's remember if the tenant hurts them selves while installing the unit, .....that you provided.....on your property.....or.......somehow they cause an electrical short......you know who will be held responsible.She of course may tell you verbally she only wants to fix the unit and not use it....but if she won't use it, why is she fixing it up?   

I have a few close friends interested in becoming RE Agents but are not yet ready to leave their day-jobs to do so.

If the loan with your friend is the right amount for you, the interest rate is good, so you might be all set.