Sounds like if you free up 1 conventional slot, you can buy 2 financed properties with a 1031 exchange. 

I installed a mail slot in my storage room and called it number 14!

This would free up the conventional slots for you to buy more.

In the meantime, I want to build up my investments so going back is even easier financially.I put a time slot on my calendar to follow up 03/22/21 with you here on BP.

I was in similar situation a couple of times this year and what I did was to ask for 2 or 3 hour window from the tenants and got them agreed; then arranged the showings in that time slot and was able to rent it out with just showing once (rent slightly below market). 

It is also reimbursing my vehicle mileage and medical expenses.Also you may need to have the entity registered in the state where the properties are as you need to have a local situs if you need to start an eviction or other legal action.

And as a result, not only wasting an agent's time in showing, but eating up a time slot that a qualifying person could have occupied. 

I have a referral, but am waiting to fill my 10 conventional slots first as the rates are better. many Portfolio Lenders will only do 15 year loans or 5/30, 7/30 arms and such.

It's not a location problem; there's just too much inventory in that slot (3-5 bedroom 1700-2400 sf) in this area to command high prices without really having something to stand out.

Thomas S.  lots