However, for future purchases as investments or otherwise, as a Realtor, I never take a commission on my purchases.For one, I don't want to pay taxes on it or split it with my brokerage. 

I think this is a calculation a lot of homeowners are making right now--especially if they have a low interest mortgage, equity, and their house will cashflow as a rental.The choice is a personal one of course, but I think your future self will thank you if you pull out some equity from your existing home with a HELOC for the downpayment on the next house and a cushion renting your current home, use a property manager as you have other things to do, and buy the next house and do the same thing again.

My main concern is maintaining a good relationship with the relocation company for potential future stays, as they were very understanding and realized it was due to asthma issues (I have not worked with the company before).I would appreciate any thoughts on how you would proceed in this situation.

For the moment though, I am just trying to gain a more robust understanding of all things real estate that I could reasonably see in my future.  

If you know that something major will need replacement in the future, increase the monthly amount you are depositing into your reserve fund.

But at the same time, it could relieve our financial burden and set us up for future investments.What would you do in this situation?

If you sell, you could access the equity you’ve built and put it toward other investments or save for a future down payment.

If you ever want to connect, I'd be happy to do so and be of any assistance in getting you started on your future. 

Local market trends: Could you share any insights into current rental market conditions and future growth projections for these areas?

I am a real estate agent trying to make new connections that is looking into property investing in the future.