I have started my search for good location in Florida to invest in short term/vacation rental in 300-400 price range.

Once you have a bit of knowledge under your belt, start looking at your local area and just watch the real estate market and see whats happening...see how houses are being sold, how quickly, what price ranges, what you are getting for that price range, etc.

We're relatively new to this and seeking our first STR property in about the $500K range using one of those 10% down loans and the cash from the original refi we did at 70% LTV. 

Look at your comps and stay in that range of renovation unless you can outdo your competition without breaking the bank.2.

If the appraisal comes back low you will have the ability to back out of the deal if you have an appraisal objection deadline in your contract. and get your earnest money back.

Would likely start with something in the $100-200k range (LOC ready to go) and I'm assuming a smaller detached house is the way to go? 

Chris - I think typically you won't take a "hit" on your credit for multiple pulls if they occur within a similar time range.

Originally posted by @Gabriel Miritello:The Home is in Savannah, GaI am an electric and plumbing contractor in Florida, shouldn't be a huge price difference from my area to GA.our pricing is 248/dropso count every (Light switch, outlet and fixture (lights etc) ) and multiply that by 248so #of drops X $248 = total for rewirethen add about $5,000 for the panel and that will give you a pretty good idea where you should stand, after that give or take $1500 and that'll give you a range!

She also isn't able to get an unskilled job that requires lifting heavy objects, working on your feet for long periods of time, etc.

What is your long term objectives?