Sounding redundant here, but if you are ever in the Conroe area, there's a meetup every third Thursday of the month.

Does this sound right? 

Any advice on how to move forward?

This sounds like an incredible learning experience!

Let me know if that sounds good!

My focus leans more toward equity appreciation than cash flow, and as a rookie investor, I’m aiming to put aside about $25-30k for investments each year.In the meantime, I’m looking to connect with like-minded folks here for mentorship, partnerships, apprenticeships, and even collaborations.Would love to hear your thoughts, advice, or anything you think might help as I continue piecing everything together!

It's doesn't really sound like you are much into being landlords so doing a 1031 might just change from "annoying when things come up" to full fledged head aches when you buy more and or larger properties in your current market.

Before diving in to offer advice, I'd like to clarify a few things with you, if I may....You mention that you are going to live in the property while you renovate. 

Any advice?

Off grid sounds cool to some, but it really limits your potential guest pool.