One of the things I’m uncertain about is whether or not I should pay off personal debts before making investments.

Your cap ex and management will likely to be factored in and are you planning on seeing these in person.

Then subtract this basis from your net sales price (contract minus closing costs). 

This limits the volume of what you can do versus a year contract rental.

@Troy Fisher was very helpful with providing a good contact and I had a 30-minute conversation with the person.  

Hi Julianne, Investing in rental properties near a beach in Florida sounds like a great idea, especially if you're looking to combine investment with personal enjoyment during the winter months.

But would it be fine if I Iabeled myself as the listing owner and made the other person the host? 

Do they have a contract? 

Now the buyer's agent will be even more aggressive with trying to force his "client" to get under contract & close the deal.

The seller was the most lazy person I have ever met.