In my head, the steps moving forward look something like this:Find job ---> Move into temporary rental ---> Sell house---> Be pre-qualified for FHA loan--> Find multi-family unit.Here are a couple of questions: What should I be doing now in preparation if I don't know the exact location where we will end up?

Also, you're investing, so take the emotional element out of the deal.

All I have are the proformas.Does anyone have any advice for how I can get around this temporary obstacle?

As you said if i can leave the emotional attachment out of it and fix whatever needs to be fixed when we move back in in 5 years would you say this is a decent strategy?

Good start make sure you don't get emotionally invested in the design where you are over improving for the area and price point, I own a few pieces in the area and have been flipping for a few years now.

By prolonging the drama it may cost you both more monetarily and emotionally in the long run.

There is also Best Beach Getaways and Pandhandle Getaways.I was lucky to get a 30year fixed due to a Fannie Me temporary exemption that only existed on two complexes from Fort Walton to Panama City when I purchased.

Don't let your emotions take over your rational decision making. 

Also know your comps (forget about the emotional appeal - if it does not have cash flow or equity - you don't need it.)

So just after signing papers with new tenants who I agreed to one pet with I was immediately hit with a letter effectively stating that they would also be bringing in an emotional support animal.