The classic BRRRR strategy could work great here.

If you're tax bill is $6-8k (minus the 1031 fees), surely you can make that up by taking multiple swings over a longer period of time.OR pursue some sort of owner occupied strategy with that cash if you can swing a live in flip or house hack.

I see a disservice being provided in the given example by the real estate agent by not bringing creative strategies on both the sellers and buyers position on this particular deal.

Many different strategies to choose from.What are you doing in Sacramento?

Lastly this is my first post here so apologies in advance if I posted this wrong or in the wrong place  House hacking is perhaps the best strategy to get started in real estate.

A duplex strategy is a low-risk entry, saving on living expenses.

It is most important that you have a clear understanding of the type property and the strategy you want to use (FLIP, LONG TERM BUY AND HOLD, STR, MTR).  

I've made that mistake in the past and agree that it's not typically a tactful strategy.

I love section 8 but it comes with positives and negatives just like any other strategy.

Look at their marketing strategy.