At this moment, NE Fl is being fueled by the new property tax laws effecting people in the North East.  

As far as raising money and paying a finders fee for bringing 'investors', you'd be better served by researching the SEC laws. 

There are no laws against doing this.

New tax laws allow us to take most things as a one time expense instead of depreciating it.

I also learned the laws, made sure I did everything by the book, and covered all my bases.

If they're month-to-month then you just need to give them 30 days (or whatever your state/local laws require) notice of the rent increase, however seeing as the current owner has not increased rent and you're the "new guy" coming in, don't be surprised if the increases are met with anger/hostility.

Also make sure you’re in compliance with any state laws on how much you can except from tenants in any particular window.

Sounds like you know that you are supposed to have your properties titled in LLC's but law suits are something that happen to other landlords, right?

The cars on the front law could be a liability issue. 

My husband and I are soon to be brand new landlords....My father in law recently passed away and we will be taking ownership of the home.