And if your appreciation is 4% a year, that would be a gain of another 7,600 a year. 

Can local investors in Real estate still gain returns that change family history?

I also estimate that, after accounting for a 10% vacancy, I could rent the property for about $1,800 per month.Even with that ($400) cash flow, I still feel like I’d be better off than where I am now, between the experience I’d gain, the equity I’d build, and the appreciation and tax benefits.

I am selling a property in CA with a pretty hefty gain (great!)

Many people believe investing in real estate is a passive activity, but that's rarely the case.

As you gain experience on what you really couldn’t learn from books or podcasts, you will have the fallback of the annuities to bail you out.

We're currently working in the business quite a bit right now, but as it grows we'll be hiring to have it fully staffed with passive income to cover our current expense plus more. 

Is this possible to delay or nix capital gains? 

Right now, I am not in need of passive or even income on a month to month basis. 

Real estate is more passive while business is often active income until you get people in place.