However, if things change and I am relocated in the near future, how does that affect the homestead distinction if I rent it out? 

Rich Ng I do not believe there is currently a distinction between the two hopefully lawmakers see this loophole of emotional support animals and close it because it is only hurting people who truly need service dogs

The two largest brokerages in the metro area have a policy not allowing their agents to act as dual agents even in the jurisdictions where it is legal to do so.

I think there is an important distinction to be made, that the people we know who were able to build wealth by investing in real estate likely did it slowly, over a long time - which doesn't let you quit your day job. 

I feel that the largest concern with STR is when homes in strong single family neighborhoods are being converted.  

But as far as the mold goes, there's a distinction you'll want to make between a home inspector, and a mold inspector: Not all home inspectors are authorized/qualified to do mold testing.

Yes the DC area has the largest concentration of federal employees, but we have a very diversified economy here.

@Ron Dayley  @Mike Cumbie  makes a nice distinction in his post.. you have licesne for the benefit of investing .. and you get a license to enter the vocation of selling real estate and building a career at that.. two different things.. for the investor.. the cut rate shop works fine.for someone who wants this to be their vocation then full service with great training is recommended as you state..

Other than that there is no difference or distinction in taxation when shifting types of real estate.  

I have been working in the mortgage industry for close to 8 years for one of the nations largest lenders.