The 45-day window has now closed and we are not interested in trying to redo the sale (CPA said it is very complex and expensive).

Also, speak with your cpa as it sounds like they are converting equity to debt which could have some gnarly tax consequences that are way above my pay gradeAlso recognize interest on debt is ordinary income.

#1  Check with your CPA.#2  Have you read the guidelines for RE professional status.#3  Just based on what you post here I don't think you would qualify.https://www.landlordstudio.com/blog/real-estate-professional...but I guess it depends on how much of your time will be spent on real estate activities. 

You will want to discuss what you owe for capital gains with your CPA (if not already) and then go from there.

I would consult with your CPA and your lender on options depending on which path may be more beneficial. 

That depends on your discussion with your CPA who signs off on your return.

My next step is to find a CPA.

Outside of real estate, I am a CPA, working at a small firm that specializes in forensic accounting and attest services.

I work full-time as a CPA audit manager at a Big 4 public accounting firm, and in my free time I would love to help and learn from an experienced investor with strategies similar to what I’m interested in (appreciation, single family (potential multi family), mid-term rental (potential short-term)).Open to any advice as well on how to make my first leap into actual investing!

Note: I do plan on checking with a qualified CPA before making a jump.