What I"m seeking is an agent who can help me get comps, send me listings in a specific neighborhood, and submit offers on my behalf.

As far as your question goes, I think your Grandparents might be best served seeking the advice of a financial advisor.

(Full Service Electricians)President of Central PA Chapter of the Independent Electrical ContractorsPast Apprenticeship & Training Chair of IECNationally Acclaimed Instructor for the NAHBPS - I am not here seeking work and only work in Central PA

There are far worse things I could`ve spent my Federal Tax refund on :wink: Anyway,...I`ll certainly have a ton of questions to ask, will be needing advice and guidance, and seeking input and opinions as I embark on this new adventure - one that will certainly be a learning experience, but hopefully, not one fraught with peril, since I won`t feel like I`m going it alone, not with a great resource like BiggerPockets!

My plan would be to seek alternative or private financing for a lease to own option, or a partnership and I would live in it while paying the mortgage and doing the updates...

I would recommend that you seek counsel from all of your team (tax accountant, business accountant, lawyer, insurance agent, etc.)

Check with your lawyer but you probably don't have a complete enforceable contract to convey the homestead without your spouse's signature.I am not a Florida lawyer so this is not legal advice which you need to seek asap.

You are a buy and hold guy seeking cash flow.

I am seeking startup/working capital to fund projects.

While you can use any contract you wish, I highly recommend you seek out a seasoned investor to help you navigate any contract you choose to use and learn how to properly assign a contract, how to determine values, repairs, title issues, etc.