You could attempt the BRRRRRRRRR route but odds are you don’t want to take your eye off of your PhD job :)

@Thibe LuongI would suggest going with an experienced realtor in your area, and attempting to build a relationship with them.

I was planning to attempt to sell it myself—regular sale, not short.

Recently attempted to refinance a small multi and comps were low.

While I wholeheartedly agree with the unrealistic expectations part, investors are still in the business of flipping for profit, so for discussion, what are some methods of success when attempting to reach out to banks or vacant property owners that have worked for you?

He was very eager to move forward and then just stopped responding to attempts to communicate. 

I think it's always better to attempt better communication rather than move to the TOW card too fast.I also always ask myself: If this were a B neighborhood, would I be so quick to resort to towing the car? 

It's very important to think strategically when attempting a 1031 in a sellers market - for the same reasons you're feeling nervous. 

For the out of state properties, were you looking at turnkey providers or will you attempt to self manage?

Ben Gilbert I do not have a problem attempting to put a group together but, their would need to be more interest in the group rather than just you and I.