Being on title protects the seller from the buyer defaulting - it seems this is an alternative to "officially" putting them in a 2nd position)-- Title company sends seller the $350K they require-- Title company sends buyer back $650K (which they can use to pay off their transactional lender if they used one)So now the seller is happy bc they got the $350K they needed, the buyer is happy bc they acquired a property for zero dollars out-of-pocket, and from what I understand the 1st position lender is happy bc due the LLC arrangement the seller finance component is not technically considered a second lien on the property.

Alternatively, does anyone have any recommendations on books or podcasts specific to Canadian Real Estate Investing?

would an alternative route be getting a limited FHA 203(k) Loan to purchase an auctioned home or does FHA 203(k) require an inspector first as well?

You can start as a passive investor, and look at alternative active strategies.

If I just sell with no 1031, I have the funds to invest right away in alternative asset classes but  have to set some aside for settling capital gains tax and depreciation recapture when filing taxes next year.

I strongly advise you to engage a fee-only financial advisor to discuss your specific investments and track record so they can help you understand what your actual numbers look like and bring to your attention safer alternative investments.

I would love your experiences because my alternative is to spend a ton of money on airdna data! 

Alternative Markets:If cash flow is your primary goal, consider looking at nearby markets with lower property prices and higher rent-to-price ratios.

However, it allows you to use the vacant rents of 75% market rent as an alternative income to help the borrower to qualify.Happy to connect and assist you in your real estate investing journey.

I don't know of any resources set resources, it reminds me of when I was starting a food truck back in 2012 there wasn't much web presence or resources.