And, depending on where your properties are in Portland, the value might be near its peak—selling while they’re in top condition could be a smart move.Ultimately, it comes down to what will give you the most peace of mind and the most flexibility for the future.

Having a vision for future projects like the ones you mentioned are great, but learning the ABCs of RE with a small investment (initial down payment - since you only need 3.5%-5% down on a primary) is the best way to sharpen your skills.

With no comps in the area for new construction and the highest rehab selling for 205k, building enough at the onset, 4-6 new construction homes, may be the only way to start a neighborhood turn.The city is looking to increase density in the area and add anchor points in near the area to cater to future investment. 

We're exploring creative ways to provide him with the cash needed for the down payment while avoiding triggering a taxable event.One strategy we're considering is purchasing his future primary residence ourselves, making the mortgage payments, and then, once we've built enough equity—comparable to the appraised value of his rental properties—transferring the title to him as a form of exchange.What are your thoughts on this approach?

I would like getting into those in the future.

I'm currently building up capital for future ventures and properties that I find on market, as well as attempting to find the best brokerage where I can work under an individual who is already more established.

With the idea you get your 6k back when fund deal/deals  MLM all the way sell the futures and the deals that Cogo did pay me off on as you stated took forever to fund and the rates were even higher than mine :)  Its just a very good Guru selling his stuff we all know they make the money selling the 6k how to become a lender. :)  

The contract can be assigned to the LLC you create in the future.

Once you've identified what's important and what ratios to look for to evaluate a property, all future deals should be weighted against those "good" ratios/numbers - and periodically adjust to suit your goals.

Last thought (mainly for future readers), you may be talking about the 1 year FHA history if you have variable income.