All told, I was able to gain over $50k from different closings/refinances/HELOCs, and still made over $100k at selling...all tax free (primary residence).

If you do not own a primary home its easier because you can claim any 2-4 unit as primary and only have to put down 3.5% for FHA, 5% for Fannie Mae or No money down 100% of you are a Military Veteran.Live in the home for 12 months refinance pull some cash out and move on to the next property to buy.

Dont feel like you need to rush into a primary home.

You can sell the coop and purchase any type of real estate you want.The rule for the primary residence exemption os that you have lived in it for 2 out of the 5 years prior to selling. 

Is this for a primary residence or investment property?

But it's just the primary reason we havent worked together more deeply over the years.

The rent pays the mortgage for on all homes and my primary, secondary and my mother in laws home. 

My criteria is as follows:1- Primary goal is appreciation over the next 5/6 years, cashflow positive preferred but cashflow neutral at a min.2- Preferred portfolio - Duplex & SFH in TX or Duplex each in TX and FL.3- Area of interest - I-35 corridor by Austin TX and Cape Coral/Lehigh Acres FL.4- Focus is on new construction properties for obvious no immediate maintenance needs and Developer incentives on interest.I know Austin is a no brainer but I would like to get your expert opinion on Cape Coral/Lehigh acres FL area.

Hey Zaheer, That happened to my dad when he bought his primary residence.

(130-150k range). ( I do not live in NY so primary residence loans would not apply).