Some other research that I did indicated that if there are multiple owners which have all occupied the house for some 2 of the last 5 years, then they all can benefit from the 500k deduction (if they are couples, 250k for individuals).

Some of my hobbies include playing soccer and video games.

I realize there are many people who do it successfully out of state and remotely HOWEVER a big part of this game is mitigating risk and I feel there's no easier way than if the property is a short 15 minute drive

I had to find a way to be able to see my kids go to their soccer games and dance recitals.   

I know there are multiple ways to partner and I wanted to ask if this is a good idea and what other ways I could make this work?

I offer a small discount for newer, low-maintenance homes or for multiple properties (three or more).

This is a numbers game though, keep moving, driving, looking.

I have actually tried to put together deals like this in the past and they have been shut down by multiple lenders.

Have multiple sets of linens.  

I highly suggest reading the book "How to create multiple streams of income" by Conti and Finkle, it's a bit outdated but the principle still stands.