Remember that the more complexity increases not just legal set-up and ongoing fees, but tax prep and advising fees as well.There are several considerations that can go into the analysis of whether you need an LLC or whether a large insurance policy will suffice.

Max occupancy is a considerable factor driving your property revenue potential. 

As noted above there are many other considerations in deciding between a home that is new or existing.

Legal and Regulatory Considerations Thanks in advance for your help!

The two years of residence would tick back from when you lived in the home, which concluded in Sept 2021.The other piece to keep in mind, and again, I don't know where abroad you are living, but I would also consult a tax accountant familiar with the tax laws of that country, and the US tax treaty with that country, to confirm a gain wouldn't be inadvertently triggered for your country of residence. 

Now if we take into consideration the recent cut in the Federal Funds rate and rhetoric that there is a possibility of 2 more rate cuts before the end of the year, what are you waiting for to buy your next (or first) property???????

Although I have not yet purchased my first tax deed property, I have been spending a considerable amount of time researching the tax deed sale process and the tools that can be used to streamline the process as much as possible- one of those tools being PropertyOnion.com.The website seems to provide a wealth of knowledge for pretty much any property you'd like to research, and provides data that could be useful to a variety of RE investors.

My current agent is part-time...a consideration that I didn't mention in my original post.

If you can stomach that initial phase you'll be in a great position when the property is cashflow positive and worth considerably more. 

Also, for your consideration, instead of cashing out the annuities, can you use them as a collateral for future loans?