Then rent the bigger home out using a property manager, allowing her to possibly cash flow and maintain that asset and let it continue to grow in value.Encourage her to consult with a CPA or tax attorney to explore the best strategy tailored to her situation.

At the same time, someone else reduces your debt, and you get to use the tax code to improve your tax situation legally.  

Quote from @Mary Jo Carruthers: Fees for buyers side has never been set in stone.

They were taxing as a fourplex, but the CO said it was a triplex.I found out when I went to try to refi with the bank.

What's even more frustrating than asking the IRS help desk, is asking a Turbo Tax "Tax Specialist".

Those who had luck getting work paid most of it to the company because of fees and others say it’s a scam. 

(Granted, I am not factoring in various fees that may be saved by financing at acquisition).

Quote from @Edward Toomey V: I switched from Quickbooks to RentRedi 5 months ago because the payment processing fee cost me $400 a month with Quickbooks.

Taxes/Insurance- depends a lot on where you are located.The homes themselves- POH or TOH? 

I do intend to stay close to home - but home provides only annual opportunities and I’m looking for year round possibilities with tax deed properties.