Requiring voucher holders to work to pitch in toward rent in order to maintain assistance would have been much more effective.

Equities, stocks, bonds, real estate, gold, silver and everything else is going to increase in nominal value but not necessarily in real value. 

George Washington acquired a significant amount of land this way, and shortly after acquiring such created SYNDICATIONS (he later used JOINT STOCK COMPANIES when they came into existence) to raise the capital needed for development.  

To thrive in real estate investing, you must maintain a firm grip on your finances.

My mindset has just shifted from using real estate as a wealth building tool to a wealth maintaining tool. 

They came in around 30% cheaper than ES windows and were all stocked locally.

You can use Quickbook or Xero to maintain deal wise expenses and cashflow.

Attend seminars or workshops.Build Your Team: Start networking and finding the right professionals to support you.Start Looking: Look for properties that fit your criteria and financial capabilities.Make an Offer: When you find the right property, make a fair offer and negotiate the terms.Close the Deal: Once you've reached an agreement, complete the necessary paperwork and close the deal.Manage Your Investment: Maintain the property, screen tenants, and review your finances regularly.Make sure you have your criteria down, then financing and property selection is Easy!

Since your primary address was the condo as of your last tax return, you could argue that you maintained a primary residence there, even while living abroad.In case if you don't complete the desired period, I guess you will be able to claim partial exclusion as from your question I understand that you left the residence due to employment purpose.

You maintain stability for your family and continue benefiting from the basement rental income, offsetting some of the increased costs.