Vinyl plank is likely more durable than laminate and you can take up a piece and replace it if needed (get some extra when you buy it).

Does anyone know if selling w/ 1031 buying new rental; then renting the new property for 2 years before moving into the property would avoid any capital gains taxes?

I would focus on buying your new house first if you have the down payment, then work on the rental.  

These are loans for people who don't live in the U.S. and they want to buy investment properties.

With buying a home for personal use, what are the best months of the year to purchase where the cost will be lower.

Investment Info:Single-family residence buy & hold investment.

Time in market is the biggest benefit on your side, so the sooner you buy, the longer you'll have that property (and also, the sooner you can buy #2). 

Would anyone know of a good and reputable resource or platform to learn and execute investing / buying  mortgage notes?

We're considering selling the property due to challenges of long-distance management.We're still interested on investing out of state and plan to gradually scale our investments over the next few years, focusing on areas close to Illinois, like Wisconsin or Indiana.Any suggestions on how to approach selling our multifamily property and buying in Wisconsin or Indiana in the current market would be greatly appreciated.

11DefineConsult an interior designer12PlanCreate project plan (timelines, key dates, who to contact)13PlanCreate budget and brainstorm financing options14PlanSecure financing15BuildGet permits and licenseses16BuildGet water/electricity/power hookups set up17BuildPrepare for build (e.g. lay foundation)18BuildBuy structure19BuildBuild and remodel structure (insulation, electric, siding, etc.)20BuildBuild out interior design (e.g. paint, decorate, etc.) and buy appliances/decor21BuildBuild out lawn and landscape22BuildFinalize the exterior of the building (e.g. paint and fixtures)23MarketTake photos24MarketCreate listing25MarketCreate websiteThanks!