I've sold several homes in this area for my real estate clients too, and they've all been happy up here. 

Avoid C-Corps, as they incur double taxation.Use LLCs for rentals and consider an S-Corp election for flips if income justifies the additional complexity.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

Charming, smaller coastal towns with a slower pace of life, natural amenities, seclusion and semi-self sustainability are high on the wish list of many high level clients and investors. 

I also have a client in Turlock who could rec a good CPA up there as well.  

While not mandatory, a specialized accountant can reduce errors and provide significant tax-saving strategies tailored to your situation.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

If you're at all interested in North Carolina, consider the Triangle (Raleigh / Durham) and Triad (Greensboro / Winston-Salem) areas, which are my focus for both clients and myself.

I - nor my clients - will rent to anyone without having of proof of engagement prior to moving in.Hope this helps.

For a rental property, the gain is subject to capital gains tax (15-20%) and depreciation recapture tax (up to 25%) on any depreciation claimed, unless the proceeds are reinvested.To minimize taxes, consider reinvesting the sale and insurance proceeds into another property under §1033 or converting the property to a rental before selling to claim depreciation deductions.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

Remember also, that FHA is generally intended for an owner-occupant/primary-residence for at least the first 12 months, but as was discussed above this can be worked around.If a client qualifies for Conventional I almost always advise them to use that product rather than FHA as a general rule - but a lender will have the more relevant, tailored advice.

While I don't know the nuances of the market, I do have a client that's a real estate investor and agent in Phoenix that could probably give you some suggestions.