The labor and materials cost varies widely in different markets.

An idea we have is, I am burnt out from W2 life, and wife makes great money (+$300k) , and I could take the year to repair/renovate, manage, rent, repeat the units in the MF qualifying for REPS status (50%, 750hrs, material participation, etc). 

Compared to pre-TCJA rules, there is no material change in the tax treatment of a building involved in a like-kind exchange, where a cost segregation study has been performed.

I am wondering if anyone would recommend any real estate investing courses, podcasts, books, or any other educational material that has helped them in their own career? 

Then you slam them...Well I happen to agree that wholesaling apartments will be tough. 

In tough economic times, people downsize, increasing the demand for affordable housing options like mobile homes.

A tenant may only be evicted on this basis if the property is being demolished or if renovations will a) substantially modify or replace a structural, plumbing, electrical, or mechanical system, and require permits, or b) remove unsafe materials, such as lead paint, mold, or asbestos, from the unit.

Something to be aware of.We've filled vacancies at our medium-term rental in Denver in January before, but had trouble in November and December, so I don't know if the winter is tough or if its simply the holiday season.I'd be more interested in buying the right place whenever it comes up.

Quote from @Austin Wolff: Getting started and house-hacking in the most unaffordable housing market in US history is very tough indeed.

Long term rentals are tough to cash flow unless I implement a co-living / rent-by-the-room strategy, which I've done before, but I'd prefer to not do again.