Here would be a reasonable case if you sold the property while getting the section 121 exclusion.

We did not know if our proximity to Nashville would be more important because of the fact that we would be doing a short-term rental with the property for half of the year and then using the property exclusively as a rental in a few years?

If you choose to go with a first time home buyer program, you would need to identify all the terms and advantage of that as MANY are available.

At the end of the day, it’s a big decision choosing who to invest with, but the academy is very enticing.  

Scope of WorkThe Subcontractor agrees to perform the following work (“Scope of Work”):Detailed description of tasks and responsibilities.Exclusions: [List any exclusions here].Materials to be provided by: [Contractor/Subcontractor].Reference drawings or plans: [Attach if applicable].2.

Purchase price: $376,613 Moved to Orange Park, Florida, from Delaware three years ago, choosing this home as the perfect place to settle and grow.

Your income isn't high enough for it to make sense as a rental and the closer you get to your residence limit the greater pressure you will have to sell it before losing your exclusion in whole or part. 500k right now can make $15k per year income with zero maintenance or tenant risks. 

Quote from @Johnny Lynum: If you had the chance to invest in your first property, would you choose a single-family home or a multifamily property?

But I choose to rely on these court decisions.

We can still choose how much to pay someone to operate it if necessary.