I have seen people buy non-existant properties, bottom of lake (literally underwater), slivers of land too narrow or small to do anything, Army bombing range, expired leases, cell tower now removed, property with 30 year lease and prepaid rent for 30 years, condemned buildings, toxic waste sites, land under railroad tracks, cliffs, landlocked property, wetlands, flood zone, unbuildable property, endangered species habitat, ....I have three rules for buying at Tax Sale:1.

Looking to get started.

You'll notice in new construction areas they tend to build the homes on a pyramid. 

If you have the sellers, the buyers will start reaching out - it likely wont work for some of them and then you can ask what they are looking for and build relationships that way.

.- You mentioned this sale is tax free 121 exclusion, which is great, and seems like a solid start to your goal.- The townhouse you're moving into is currently a rental, but you plan to live there two years for the 121 exclusion.

Of course, if you buy them, the depreciation clock starts over.

If you’re just getting started in real estate, feel free to reach out – I’ve been coaching new investors for a while and am happy to help you however I can.

For me fortunately I believe I have traditional security losses that equate to my capital gain, but I fear this DST industry has successfully pulled the wool over the eyes of retail investors who have a 1031 - 45 day count down and feel they have no other choice.The debate can start here.

We also have some buildings that are single family conversions not built with seperate utilities. 

As for starting a new job, I would advise you to focus, focus, focus on the job that provides you the opportunity to invest.