Here's the thing about ALE and similar agencies: they can be a goldmine, but you need to adjust your approach to meet their demand sweet spot.

Here is the how I would explain it to a kindergartner:The true power of a 1031 exchange is the ability for an investor to meet their investment objectives without losing equity to taxation.With more money they can buy larger, multiple, or more productive properties.What is the alternative?

I'm happy to meet in person. 

I only mention this because I noticed your mention of Furnished Finder, which is the only platform I list my MTR, and FF caters to 30+ day stays. 

while still trying to keep up with the competition Do you rely more on direct-to-seller marketing, networking with agents, leveraging platforms like PropStream and Batch Leads, or just by looking at a lot of deals?

Quote from @Sean O'Keefe: Quote from @Tom Gorrell: We have 3 rentals in CA and one in Kentucky (total value about 2.5 M)some W2 incomesome pension incomesome syndication income and some from a business (s corp) Based on what you say, it feels like $3k - $4k but would need more info on how frequently you meet with CPA outside of Jan - Apr when you are filing and if this includes tax strategy. 

@Michael Palmer As a general rule of thumb bank originated construction debt will be WSJ Prime +1 point with a floor, 1 point origination and 75-80% LTC while meeting certain LTV thresholds (normally 70-75%).

Just meeting people and looking to connect for knowledge.

I prefer small Strip malls or self storage.I need advice on how to find the deals, how to get lending on them and then how to set up the structure.I have flexibility to fly out next month is there are peers who can meet and help me out in their local markets.thanks,Paul 

The function of this guide is to get the reader up to speed quickly on the neighborhoods so you can invest in neighborhoods that meet YOUR investing criteria.