You would only pay taxes on all passive investments in a traditional SDIRA at distribution, unless you have a mortgage, then the portion of the income derived because of the mortgage will be subject to UDFI (unrelated debt finance income) which will trigger UBIT (unrelated business income tax). 

If the $700K sales price is not used correctly to acquire qualified real estate, the exchange could fail, triggering tax liability.Future exchanges will depend on the total value of the replacement property acquired, so entering syndications could limit flexibility.

What are some considerations in finding a provider that offers checkbook control?

Their customer service department is very responsive.When selling a service as taking care of everything and handling the complete process, this includes all forms, liabilities and considerations for that particular need.

So, if your current rent roll is still on the lower side, it could limit the amount you can borrow right now.However, if you have even a partial track record showing improvements.. say a few of the units are already updated and attracting higher rents.. a lender might take that into consideration when underwriting.

One more tip – people remember stories that trigger their emotions.

If someone is willing to live in and renovate the 2 of last 5 year capital gains exclusion is a significant consideration.

Local investor meetups are also a great place to find a mentor and just talk to other investors in your market.It can be pretty scary buying your first deal, but at some point you need to pull the trigger if investing is truly what you want to do.

It would take considerable manpower to show every rental and every lead for a large company.

But if they don't willingly make the payment your only option would be to sue, and they have the upper hand to let the lender know about the sale possibly triggering DOS.