Quote from @Melanie Bor: I recommend you attend some networking meetings and speak with other investors for personal recommendations.

I'm organizing four events across the US for local short-term rental hosts to come together to have a beer and chat about challenges they've faced and things they've learned over the year and swap a few stories.

I am just thinking ahead, just in case, but wanted to get input on what options I could have with current tenants in a lease that might not expire for close to 1-2 years from now in the event I "needed" to sell a house or two, either for a better cash position for myself, or to 1031 into a larger investment property, etc.?  

To do this you could take courses, attend training sessions, seek out a coach or mentor, and read articles and books.

First of all, my town and the ones surrounding are pretty small and don't have much for events for these types of people often enough to make a huge difference. 

If there are any real estate meet ups or coffee hours in your area I’d recommend you start trying to attend some of those to meet some other people and get networking.

I have attended several "cattle calls" and still had the wholesaler calling the next day begging for an offer.

Those who are most successful buying SFH's buy in markets that experience a sudden  appreciation event/spike in home ownership  creating an end buyer market that no longer consists primarily of investors.

In most cases the seller pays on their behalf, but in the event they don't, the buyer is obligated to." 

Interest in purchasing a small farm to open a wine tasting room and outdoor event space.