I'm a new real estate investor based in Calgary looking to network

We're willing to live almost anywhere in the greater Sacramento area based on what we can afford, provided of course that the property is in a decent neighborhood that has a good chance of attracting responsible tenants.As for budget, I believe we could get a conventional loan for properties up to $600k, but my strong preference is to find a distressed property (or seller!)

We consulted with a designer once, but saw it as no value based on what we had already done ourselves.

Regarding the location of the Qualified Intermediary (QI), it doesn't matter whether they are based in New Jersey, Florida, or elsewhere.

The drop and Swap is about all we use here due to the confiscatory tax rates based on sale price.

Most of the flips I look at are razor thin on margins based on estimates. 

Quote from @Michael Overall:I understand the utilities will go to basis, on the interest is it able to be yearly deducted based off the conversation you referenced if using form 4952According to one of my colleagues on that thread - yes.According to court - no.

I'm a former general contractor and cabinet maker based in New York City.

South and South East is less expensive, but you're not going to get the appreciation and my impression is it's not as good a tenant base.

One challenge was getting the hotel occupancy up after renovation since no one had booked or stayed in years so there was no existing guest base.