Technically I didn't use my own money because its all borrowed money.  

There are many sophisticated CPA's on biggerpockets who are knowledgeable on real estate taxation.

I technically have a contractor we've worked together on projects before but I was just wondering to be honest I'm probably overthinking the hell out of this but I'd rather be safe than sorry.

Also, can you create your own Option contract or does it technically have to be prepared by a lawyer etc?

I do not purchase counting on equity, technically.

My question is if I plan to house hack this duplex should I not include the rent of the unit I plan on occupying to calculate NOI, since it technically isn't my income?

See my forum comment above about what that means to security deposits and other such requirements.A request by a tenant or tenant prospect for an assistance animal is technically a "reasonable accommodation" request under the Fair Housing laws that a landlord waive its rule prohibiting pets, or requiring a security deposit or other such monetary requirement as might exist for pets. 

They don’t want people taking advantage of an MCC (like one spouse on a mortgage while both spouses are working, so technically they wouldn’t qualify for the down payment assistance and MCC).

Even though you are not technically licensed (YET) a judge might consider you to be an Expert as you have taken the Pre-Licensing courses. 

Ordinary income and ordinary gain are not eligible for deferral.There may be a technical question (since the regulation itself reference capital gain) whether section 1231 gain is covered.