Since the properties are in our LLC, would the same capital gains tax rules apply or no?

If your answer is "yes" to those questions, then it's a deal and there shouldn't be a worry about a non-refundable down payment...after all it is applied to the purchase price of the property and it is refunded if they cannot provide clear title.  

My current options include: Patio pavers (rubber and stone/brick)GravelCement padNothing/stick with grassThis is currently for my residence thats a house hack but I have a rental that the shed part of this applies as well.

Overall, if youre comfortable with keeping the rate and payment you have at the moment, apply the difference toward principal reduction.

Recent evictions translate to "We don't want you in our place" when you go apply somewhere else.  

The 1161a section applies to situations where occupants hold over after the premises are sold. 

Texas does not have a state income tax, hence state-level capital gains tax does not apply.

Is there a typical minimum period where the penalty applies, like 3-5 years?

My name is Brittney, my husband and I are in the process of starting our own fix and flip investment but unsure how to proceed and get our first investor, preferable a private money lender because we dont have the capital, or credit to get a loan and you have to wait at least 6 months after opening an LLC and getting a business line of credit in order to apply for a loan.

But I think your post applies to almost everything in life.