I have interacted with many of these folks who hit me with PM on BP.. 

I would love to hear about any interactions you all have had with hard money lenders and what I should expect.

@Raj Kothari as Dave Foster mentioned there are passive investments that qualify as real estate and can be used as replacement property.

I also love the idea of meeting all the occupants and seeing how the parents and children interact at the showing."

Also would love recommendations for networking events near Newport Beach, CA Thanks, look forwarding to getting to know and interacting with all of you, Shane

I suggest if you are committed to not buying a multi-family then you at least do what I did and look for a place with a detached garage apartment, it pays half my costs for the property and I don't have to listen to or interact with my tenant at all.

@Dave Foster Thanks for the insights.

@Dave Foster may have an idea.

Thanks for all your help @Dave Foster! 

As far as 1031- check out @Dave Foster, he's very active in the forum and really knows his stuff.