Even if I were found guilty, the cost would be in the thousands, not in the millions.

Refinancing has more nuances than it seems, and so do closing costs.

The hilly terrain is a main reason for this and you can't really see that on a map so knowing the areas is key.We have old housing stock as well so big things like plumbing and electrical can vary cost wise if they have or haven't been updated.

You won't find a deal where you live for free, but if you can live in a great neighborhood at a reduced cost of living that is a nearly risk free way to get started in real estate. 

I have had investors pull equity from their homes in the phoenix area to buy cash flowing properties in Fayetteville and similar areas, because the price growth in the phoenix area generates amazing returns.It depends on if you want cashflow now or delayed gratification later.Keep in mind that when you do sell, there are costs to selling and depreciation recapture  and IRS taxes, which eat up most of your "equity" growth. 

Since you're using an FHA 203k loan and house hacking, focus on managing renovations efficiently to avoid delays and unexpected costs.

==========================My relative is asking if this is a viable way to legally avoid having to pay taxes:STEP 1: SELL PRIMARY RESIDENCE (House A)-Sell primary residence to son-in-law for cost basis + $500K-File gift tax form for difference between sale price & market value-Not pay capital gains on $500K due to personal exemption.STEP 2: SELL RENTAL PROPERTIES-Do 1031 exchange and buy House A back from son-in-law-Rent out House A for 1 year before move back in==========================Thoughts?

These methods include: Detailed Engineering Cost ApproachDetailed Engineering Cost Estimate ApproachSurvey or Letter ApproachResidual Estimation ApproachSampling or Modeling ApproachExperience or “Rule of Thumb” ApproachIt’s important to understand the differences between the approaches including which one best fits your property and the reliability of each approach.DETAILED ENGINEERING COST APPROACHThis approach compiles the costs from construction and accounting reports to build a report.

Do you have a total price range you're looking for, or maybe a cost/door?

That may increase your cost or limit the coverage you can get.The Year that the following were updated (either partially or fully) would be good to know:- Heating systems- Roof- Plumbing- electricalSome companies will not write properties with systems that have not been updated.As long as you are living there, the proper policy for a 1-4 family is a "Homeowners" policy.