This is way more conservative than a lot of people I talk to and has definitely meant that I lost out on opportunities, but it gives me bigger peace of mind and in shifting markets I feel better prepared to adapt if need be. 

One thing you definitely want to do since you've got a bit of a runway would be to use part of the 1031 to purchase a really nice investment property (maybe in Denver). 

I'm definitely leaning that way Chris. 

Just wondering, when you say you never put down more than 10% and other other benefits you describe, I'm assuming that's just for a house hack/primary residence?

Id definitely allot yourself an extra couple weeks though for your calculations.

Definitely not, IMO, Been there and its a waste of time and money and risk unless you have dedicated plan to take advantage of having it.

Quote from @Henry Clark: Quote from @Jake Andronico: Quote from @Arn Cenedella: @Jake AndronicoI’ve looked into them but have never executed one.Let me say they will be expensive and complicated.I think what you will find if one is trying to defer $50,000 to $100,000 in gain, it’s not going to be worth the time and trouble.On the other hand, if client is trying to defer gain of $500,000 to $1,000,000, it’s worth the time and trouble.I use First American Exchange for my own account a dozen times and they have been right on the money.Google them and reach out.ArnIt's definitely more expensive than a traditional 1031 exchange, but being able to secure properties upfront can be super convenient.   

But you won't realize that until after the fact when you are sitting at home with the 4 books that came with your $45,000 seminar payment and you wondering "What's my next step?"  

But if you’re questioning whether your condo will keep appreciating the way you want, and you’re set on staying in real estate investing, a 1031 could definitely be worth exploring.

While there are definitely benefits to running a fund, it's tough to achieve success with funds as a beginner because oftentimes investors are attracted to the track record of the person or team running the fund.