Would it just be like a condo at that point?

It's a small town (I think 30,000 people) that's likely going to be difficult to find reliable PM's, tradespeople, etc. 

I would not put "before pictures" that are ugly, because people cannot unsee things and usually have no imagination about what it could look like. 

I'd like to sell my CO property and do a 1031 Exchange for a local FL property but I've been cautioned by members in the local investment clubs about potential Relinquished Debt consequences. 

Willing to work as an extra hand or anything like that for a house flipper with experience to kind of get that hands on learning that I need!

Each option depends on your timeline, but a HELOC or cash-out refinance will likely offer the best long-term value, and it looks like you already qualify as REPS, which can save you 1000s in taxes if you plan your investment correctly.

With the increased competition among sellers, it’s crucial to prepare a listing to stand out among the rest and work to address likely buyer objections prior to going on market.

I've been educating myself through books and podcasts on topics like sourcing off-market deals, deal and property analysis, creative financing, and title reviews.My fiancé is an architect that works with GC's and structural engineers to design homes ensuring they are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and safe- which I hope will help me navigate this space as I grow my knowledge.

So yes, based on what you've posted it sounds like your CPA is correct. 

I got 2 payments as finder's fees from a developer/builder, and they see it as a line item in their expenses, like paying for drywall.