won't higher-end STRs just have to be sold, to be turned back into traditional non-money making vacation homes, or primaries? 

If this is a primary residence, it does not apply.

I have experience as a Residential agent in Denver, CO and as a commercial Leasing Associate in Chicago, IL.I am planning to purchase my first rental home here in the next year or so and make it my primary residence.

The few lenders I've reached out to in my area (local banks, credit unions, etc.) are only working with primary residence for Helocs or Cash Out refi.

I already did a cash out refinance on my primary in Texas and therefore can't do a HELOC on it.Trying to find other ways to get 10-40k cash.

I live overseas and have been renting my only/primary residence on FF for a couple of years now.

@Brian Scott, you have the option of using a 5% down conventional multi family loan purchase for your next primary residence on up to 4 units.

3) can a 250k exemption from sale of primary residence be claimed in the same year as a 1031 exchange for a rental?

Looking to add about 700sf on to the main house, to include a primary suite.

I have two properties right now, my 1st home (currently rented) and our primary home.