Here’s a thought:Step back and evaluate which properties, if any, are truly worth keeping based on current performance and future potential.

The future is not known, and yes, it very well could end badly, it's a real potential. 

The one who did charges $3,000 per loan.I may be interested in your event in the future, but not quite yet.

This will minimize the tax burden of the gain you currently have and defers any other gain through the 1031 giving you more buying power going into the future.

I don't know about you but I prefer to buy/invest in a market that has strong demand when it comes to my future profitability.

However, I have no idea how to choose from the remaining cities, it seems there are a lot of potential options:- Midwest - Michigan (ie: Grand Rapids) seems to have options, also seeing Columbus Ohio and Indianapolis coming up- Reno - I've seen mentioned several times on here- Pittsburgh / Philadelphia / Twin Cities - All mentioned as lower cost to get started, and seem to be experiencing growthI'd ideally like to find a place that has strong potential for future growth, a diversified economy, and I don't mind living in (being close to nature would be a plus). 

If you find this is the case with a property you’re evaluating I would run away not walk as this can be a huge problem for future cash flow.

Predictive Analytics: Historical data can expose future trends in value, rental demand, and market conditions.

The knowledge you gain from it will enable you to grow 10X in the future.

Your goals seem to balance future personal use with investment potential.