But they all are managable.

Based on my research it seems like with a little rehab and managing a short term rental effectively, short term would likely cash flow more in a market like Tampa. 

I wanted to self manage, and hence was thinking of focusing on the areas close to where we live.

House hacking will also give you some personal "property management" experience.

Since you appear to live in Brooklyn I assume you will rely on a 3rd party property manager.

Assemble a team of individuals who can split following responsibilities: contribute the earnest deposit money, guarantee the loan, find the deal/conduct the diligence, raise the capital and manage the building.

Learning to manage tenants, property managers, and projects is a whole other set of skills.

Biggest suggestion would be to make sure you are flexible, willing to work with multiple housing programs, and hire a good manager if you are not going to self manage the units.

I got it under contract, she secured private funding and I managed the rehab.  

It's a good idea to talk to legal and financial experts about taxes, insurance, liability, rental agreements, and managing your finances.