Using the exchange proceeds in your account your Intermediary purchases your new property (in theory less expensive than what you sold) and holds it in an entity called the Exchange Accommodating Title Holder (EAT) apart from you. 

The money has to go to a qualified intermediary.

Talk to your local 1031 intermediary to understand the logistics. 

Only problem is there is no intermediary management so once the money gets sent theres no getting it back.

You can't get the funds, they have to go to the Qualified Intermediary (the exchange company).

If you do a 1031 Exchange, you must use a Qualified Intermediary, and you must acquire replacement property that is equal to or greater in value than the property you sold, and you must reinvest all of your cash proceeds (assuming that you want to defer all of your taxes).

My question lies in the process of the 1031 exchange.I know I have to have 1031 qualified intermediary handle it and I have a 180 day to have the process complete, but I am wondering if there is anything I have to do to make this work since in reality I would be the owner from the ground up.

You need to establish a relationship with a Qualified Intermediary ASAP who will act as custodian and accommodator, holding the proceeds on your behalf. 

You'll need a portal to do that which will act as an intermediary between your bank and your renters.

The required qualified intermediary is simply an added component in the middle and has to be used to perform 3 functions Document the transactions and process to provide a clear trail for your accountant and the IRS.Take custody of the proceeds from the sale and transfer to the purchase as you cannot have actual or constructive receipt.Consult with you to keep you straight of all the little regs and nuance.It's this third one that is so critical if you want to harness the full power of the 1031 exchange.