So, my condo is in a prime location just a few blocks from the beach.

It's costly, takes time, requires a specific process to be followed to the letter, and it's not for the faint of heart.

While the property does require renovation, its location just a block from the new baseball stadium adds significant value and potential.Our challenge, and the reason we’re seeking advice or considering a sale, is that we are facing some hurdles.

With new construction and renovations going on, on almost every block.

I actually during the credit crisis when our PDX banks froze  ... contacted them about doing a subdivision A and D loan for me... sent docs down  but I got a pre qual letter to quick and what I thought was too easy... next step was the 10k for due diligence, being a lender myself it was just too easy...

@Alex P.Here's a few references to start that may help you to find the answer to your question: Treasury regulation §301.7701-(3)(b)(1)IRS Private Letter Rulings 9807013, 200732012 and 201216007If you need help finding these or interpreting them, as well as knowing how reliable they are for you to use for your own taxes, consult a tax professional. 

@Bill HamptonI hired a guy off BP for accounting and it was an absolute nightmare.Would HR block be fine for me currently with only 1 STR?

Not all areas are bad , but that can be block by block . 

Off of the purchase contract, I would verify proof of funds, ask for prequalification letter from a lender if buyer is receiving a loan, with a good faith deposit.

I block off super popular dates (like 4th of July week), then unblock them 2-3 weeks beforehand with much higher prices than I would have gotten if I'd left them open 6 months ahead.