If you had sold it a year ago, you could have taken the homestead deduction and paid zero capital gains on the increase in value.  

This will allow you to gain valuable experience without overwhelming yourself.Understand the Market: Take the time to research the Houston market thoroughly.

Is there really no capital gains tax on the sale of real estate in Washington state??

.- for example, although SPY lost 28% their value in 202, but as total return, my portfolio is flat because my dividend income is offsetting the market gain losses.- what I am trying to say is that, if you are a "professional fund manager", you could create your set of portfolio that could beat the market , in this situation , the 401k is even less important.

It’s  something I personally pay close attention to.

This doesn’t negate the need to check the lines, however.Pay Attention to Pride of OwnershipAmateur repairs—or a lack of repairs—and deferred maintenance are typically the result of a “low pride of ownership.”

It wasn’t a huge payday—$5,000—but what I gained from the experience was far more valuable than the check.It started when I got a lead from an older woman who owned a house in New Hampshire but lived in Maine.

Long term capital gain isn't bad. 

Sale of Property (10/2024):• Sale Price: $290,000• Net Profit: $220,000Capital Gains Calculation1.

It will not offset capital gains, rather offset the ordinary income.