Can they be used to cover or prepay the property taxes?

If you finance at 25% down, 25 year amortization and a 7% rate you will not cover mortgage and interest let alone insurance, taxes, vacancy, repair, etc.

All depends on the relationship, though I did hire a cigar / drinking buddy to do some contract work but this was only after I helped him sheetrock some walls and learned what he was capable of.

And it really depends on where you want to participate and invest.

I think it depends on goals and experience, section 8 is a good guaranteed income, air bnb or short term will have higher rents but you will have more monthly expenses (cleaning, internet, lawncare) student housing is another option, and then good old LTR.

It depends on what demographic you are aiming to serve.2) BiggerPockets, Facebook, in-person meetups.

Your monthly payment will be $15,000 and doesn't include taxes or insurance.

Saturation has always been an issue in that complex and only select floors offer gulf views depending on the building. 

Potentially, it also depends on the debt you carry. 

Are there pre-payment penalties or are you not allowed to deviate from the schedule?