Performing "better" should also be analyzed on an after-tax basis.

I am about to sell my SFH in Connecticut and have come to a halt on a few quick fixes/upgrades that will drive up the sale value of the home.

Have you run the numbers on MTR/STR to see if your cash flow improves?

I'm considering making an offer on a property that is listed as a 2 bedroom 1.5 bath as a long term buy and hold property to add to my portfolio. 

Additionally, I expect applicants to follow instructions in the advertisement and application, to make and keep appointments, to show up on time for appointments, dress and behave appropriately at appointments, and in general demonstrate throughout the process that they are someone that is easy and pleasant to do business with.

Sent you some info on that, check your inbox! 

Here are a few comments on what you mentioned:1. 600+ credit score.

So if you had a $100k gain and did an exchange from a $900k property to an $800k property you would owe the same taxes (on the $100k gain) as not doing an exchange. 

Don't get too held up on which one is better. 

I am looking at a property zoned commercial where there is retail space on the bottom floor and an apartment above.