When to sell primary residence and only pay long term cap gain ?

[Jered Sturm]

I have a primary residence I purchased August 4th 2015. I moved into the home August 4th and began doing a major renovation. I am just now finishing the renovation and plan to sell the home with an expected sizable gain.   

My plan has always been to live in the property for 1 year and then sell it utilizing the long term capital gains rate rather than my ordinary income rate.  I realize staying 2 years would make more sense financially but it is not an option for me. 

My question is: Can I accept a purchase agreement prior to August 5th 2016, and just not close until august 5th or do I have to wait  the 365 days from my purchase to even sign a purchase agreement to sell? 

The reason I ask is because I would really like to market the property through the prime selling months of May, June, and July (very family/school driven area and property). Sign a purchase agreement in may June or July with a closing set for August 5th or later. 

I was told by a friend that I could not enter into a purchase agreement until after August 5th 2016 if I wanted utilize long term capital gains rates. 

Even my own CPA gave me the "let me get back to you on that" and never returned the call. I know, I know time for a new CPA...

Maybe wise CPA or more experienced live in flip investors could shed some light on the subject or lead me to someone who can!

@Brandon Turner@Brandon Hall @Amanda Han  @Aaron C.

Thank you!