We coordinated everything with her daughter in Las Vegas and made sure the logistics were seamless.Throughout this process, we used Google Translate to communicate with Anna, which slowed things down but allowed us to ensure we were on the same page every step of the way.

Any tips on structuring deals or ensuring a smooth process would be greatly appreciated?

In either case, it's up to you and your agent to ensure you have this coverage in place if you want it.Now, if you don't have flood coverage, but you "do" have wind coverage, that changes things up. 

I don't have experience in real estate or house hacking, so I want to ensure my plan is sound and that I have all the details mapped out.

These are reputable people who stand behind the properties they find and are reliable for ensuring a smooth transaction.

In your next lease ensure that you have a one month penalty for breaking the lease and enforce it along with getting everything in writing when they give notice and you accept it. 

Are there any other considerations to ensure appropriate liability protection in this arrangement? 

However dependent upon taxable income you could get away with a pretty low tax bill due to favorable capital gains tax rates.Be sure to work with a qualified intermediary and a tax professional to ensure you comply with all 1031 exchange regulations and to be sure you keep basis correct as all a 1031 does is defer your gain.Happy to help run some numbers or do some basic analysis for you if you would like. 

I need to ensure that the rent-to price ratio will sufficiently cash flow as I intend to hold at least 5-years before acquiring any other real estate.  

I created my LLC using an online service and had a lawyer review it to ensure I was fully protected and set me up for long-term business success.