All properties build equity over time through appreciation and debt reduction each year where maybe in 3 to 5 years this would be possible (or sell via 1031), but there are creative ways that investors can invest with us where there is a greater likelihood of having more initial equity. 

I would maybe look into pulling some of the equity out via a HELOC to finance the purchase of your next property as opposed to selling. 

I hope pondering my points provides items to consider and that they are at least evaluated for likely validity for future acquisitions.good luck and learn as much as you can with this purchase   Full disclosure, I have enough rental properties that I've pivoted from buying and I'm helping other investors over the next couple of years via my Brokerage and 1-4 unit coaching. 

I read on one of these forums, where someone was looking for creative workarounds to avoid a down payment, the suggestion to purchase via seller carry, then immediately refinance after closing, which I understand would pay the seller immediately?

You are able to finance it via a DSCR loan .

It's tricky in the beginning to get exposure to different asset types and therefore strategies, except in the academic sense via YT, BP, books & courses. 

Most people think they know their boundary but aren't 100% sure.

Contact the homeowner via postcard or door knocking.

What’s worked best for us is C class single family properties, sometimes as rentals and sometimes we sell them via owner financing.

If so, they CANNOT be moved to an LLC.They will stay in your name until you refinance or otherwise pay them off.You can move ownership of the properties to an LLC via Quit Claim Deeds, but you should speak with a tax professional to make sure you understand any tax repercussions.No idea why all 4 of you are on the mortgages.