We're updating our business model and looking for more automation and I don't particularly want to go down the Podio rabbit hole if automation is out of the question.

I would generally stay away from this model - something where maybe they do this through some sort of equity partnership where they are sharing the gains/risk from the deal while you are doing the bulk of the dirty work

Do they have expertise in renovations/management that you don't?

Depreciation in real estate requires a little more sophisticated modeling, but it still works.

Connecting with someone knowledgeable like you would be an invaluable opportunity for me to expand my understanding of the market and gain some valuable insights.Your expertise and advice are highly respected, and I genuinely appreciate any assistance you can offer.

Whenever someone has a situation requiring specialized real estate expertise and I recommend they retain a professional with the CRE designation as a consultant, they inevitably ignore my advice and instead hope to obtain “free” consultation.  

There are 2 buildings, the first in Fort Wayne, near airport houses 1 tenant ZF, a german auto-parts supplier, been in the space x 22 yrs and only has 2-3 years left on lease but space is custom for them and they have long contracts from automakers for parts for legislatively mandated discontinued car parts, when car models get shut down, the manufacturers have to continue to supply parts for 10-15 years by law, and ZF gets many of these contracts, also all work force very established there so company less likely to move, but even if they do, Heritage could carve up the 1, 100k space into 4 smaller spaces and then get 50% more rent.

This is an opportunity to confirm they have the expertise you need.

@Vladimir Kotomin, with your time horizon and expertise, you're looking at the two most common replacements for a 1031 - DSTs and if you don't want the DST then an OX investment. 

I have no doubt whatsoever that he'll be able to make a nice living plying his expertise on a freelance basis.