There are two exceptions: Nonqualified use does not include any period of such use that occurs :(1) any time during the five-year period ending on the date of sale that occurs after the last day of use as a principal residence, or [ Meaning, of last  5 years, if you  rented a property of last 3 years does not trigger non qualified use, but in the last 5 years, if you first rent for 3 years and then move in for two years as a primary residence, 2/ 5 years is non qualified.](2) any time (up to two years) that the taxpayer is temporarily absent due to change in place of employment, health, or unforeseen circumstances. 

Are there any good resources you would recommend that give broad overviews of the markets and then some that provide more detail?

Just to throw out some more details to see if you have any thoughts...So I'm not a realtor and won't be on the "transaction side of the sale of the relinquished property".

Details: Built 1947, ARV 210K, 1050 Sqft.I know it's best to get a contractor to get an exact estimate.

The plan does not have to be extremely detailed, but you should give yourself an outline. 

I have agents, title companies and escrow, now I am looking for a General contractor who can assist me in the finer details of the remodel. 

I also tried a few of the online banks mentioned above as well - none worked.It can be done- but there are a few hoops to jump through and costs a bit.I use a US-Israeli accountant (offices in both countries) who can facilitate this- PM me if relevant and I am happy to give you his contact details.

I do have the rental income of all the properties but the valuation he provided didnt provide me with any details with how he got the price per square foot that he used.Is there something i'm missing?

I am already aware of the city's health department requirements of property registration.

I'll spare you the technical details, but this is a situation you'd want to avoid.