.: Is it legal, per the IRS, to rent my primary home back to myself? 

I don't think being a long distance landlord is as easy as some tout but full disclosure I've stayed with 80 miles of my primary residences. 

Can still use the $250k primary residence deduction per spouse on capital gains.  

After meeting with a number (like 8) different contractors the quotes i got back made the deal, not a deal (i think). 

Their different backgrounds will lead to 80-90% of the same stuf being pointed out, but the 10-20% differences can be eye-opening and lead to more accurate bids.Suggest you visit a Home Depot on a Saturday, between 6-8am.

Luckily our tenant is easy going. his entrance has a different front door but not his own house number. 

@Jon D. some questions, the answers may help you better focus.1) Why did you pay your primary mortgage off in the first place?

A reliable contractor and an exceptional agent can make all the difference when things go wrong.The Outcome:This was a humbling experience, and I still wonder if I could have done anything differently (besides the insurance). 

I have a HELOC on my Texas primary residence and am considering a house hack for my next purchase.

All depends on the interest rate on the primary home and if fixed.