Just remember anyone who has acted as your employee, attorney, accountant, investment banker or broker, or real estate agent or broker within the 2-year period ending on the date of the transfer of the first of the relinquished properties is considered your agent and is disqualified from being your QI.So definitely ask them for recommendations but they cannot act as your QI on the exchange. 

@Eric Smith A 1031 exchange with a related party is possible but comes with strict IRS scrutiny and holding period requirements.

Buyers want patios, decks, and backyard spaces that extend the home’s livable area.

While there is no statutory holding period to qualify, it is important that you be able to demonstrate that your intent was to hold. 

Most of the time but not all of the time, I visit the property during the due diligence period.

Conventional lenders typically require a 6-month seasoning period from purchase before they’ll consider the appraised value for a cash-out refinance.

The timing of people most apt to say "F-it, I'm done with this stuff, I'm gonna take the $ and run" is in that 90 day period. 

It may trigger if you are paying down the balance aggressively during the prepayment penalty period. 

Here are some key elements to include:Lease Agreements: Ensure your contracts reflect the latest laws, such as notice periods for entry or rules around security deposits.Fair Housing Compliance: Familiarize yourself with federal, state, and local fair housing laws to avoid discriminatory practices.Property Standards: Regularly inspect your properties to ensure they meet safety and habitability standards.Tax Documentation: Keep accurate records to comply with tax reporting requirements.4.

I want to create a fund that will allow me to purchase distressed homes, fix them up, and sell with owner financing (possibly including a 5 year balloon so as to be able to recapitalize periodically and give investors a shorter horizon).