This option would require assembling a local team as I'm considering forgoing a property manager.D) Invest in a Better Maryland Area: The goal would be to find a property with higher appreciation potential, though I'm aware that the cash flow might not match what I'm currently achieving.Given the unique circumstances of my current investment—significant appreciation, a specific tenant base, and a low mortgage rate—I'm weighing these options carefully.

.#3 At this point I would have a good lender or two in your pocket that have run different options for you based on what you qualify for loan wise. 

Make a decision based on the numbers.

The ownership and use periods do not need to be consecutive.Exceptions to the Two-Year Rule:If you're selling due to a change in employment, health reasons, or other unforeseen circumstances, you may be eligible for a reduced exclusion.In cases of unforeseen circumstances, the IRS may prorate the exclusion based on the time you spent in the home.In your situation, if you sell the property before meeting the two-year ownership and use requirement, you may not qualify for the full exclusion.

I personally view it as a liability protection issue and base the decision on my costs to have the LLC versus the equity contained within.

Based on the post, I'm not sure if the units are identical. 

I would base the theme on what the house is near.

In my experience “hard” money is used to describe an extreme section of what’s referred to as asset based lending.  

I set custom calendars based on the property.

I'd assume the tenant base is mainly nurses and professionals.The other option is to do a 30-day minimum on Airbnb, who collects a 3% fee, but handles the rest.