I’ve done 1 rental property and sold it to gain capital and did 1 flip that didn’t go so well so not 100% experienced to say the least.

They’re going to get an appraisal, but appraisals are backward-looking—they don’t account for potential, only for what exists today.

You can give them whatever notice is required by their existing lease to enter, go in or send your pm and take photos to use to compare for your records on move out.

My partner never let a lead go until the timber was on the log truck if it was standing we were calling them..

Are you going to be starting your portfolio eventually?

Was going for the best cost-of funds (lower rate)

As a newbie I would not go into this space without money.

The 1031 is going to reap you a large net benefit even if there isn't a lot of capital gain. 

from a laptop or mobile phone on one of my SFR's (internet must be hooked up, but most tenants do it anyway and like to be able to monitor the outside of the house remotely, even if there's nothing going on.)

Depending on the type of commercial you want to get into my suggestion is to go work for a company that does commercial real estate as learning from people who do it and getting paid at the same time is not a bad strategy