Can you either rent out your current property if there’s been little/no appreciation, or sell it tax free?

The big pro that sticks out to me in Birmingham is the tax rate. 

I learned this when I bought 12 new builds for GOZONE tax bene's really nice brick homes in best part of town but values just did not rise enough so by the time i had to change everything out and pay sales commish it was break even at best..

even if its interest only, id want to pay down principal here and there. seems like sellers would offer this interest only route so they have 0 capital gains tax, but id rather pay down a bit of principal in 7yrs. i see its not required but it should allow for principal paydown in promissary note3) any general advice to look out for on seller financing?

Curb appeal for higher-end properties will be much more important, especially when it comes to marketing - most ads and main listing photos feature the front of the property.In this case, I would consult with a professional - i.e. landscape designer or stager.

Approximately 6-8 weeks ago my attorney stated he was unable to get the delinquent tax 'owner' nor the squatters served in this matter. 

Sell, get the tax savings while you can.

When I look at the equity and the 15% Capital gains tax bracket I would likely be in, I would avoid ~$24,000 in taxes if sold before Aug. 2025.- I am aware of my 1031 options should I want to sell and defer taxes beyond that 3-year date (and would need to continue to do so until death if I wanted to avoid those taxes instead of just defer them). - I believe the current rental situation I have is better than the property warrants.

Having a CPA who really understands REI and STRs is key for tax strategy and compliance. 

You would have had to be there for at least that to save on the capital gains taxes (up to 250k).