Remaining tax would be total taxable gain less depreciation recapture less PAL carryforward (from "unused" depreciation expense)Alternatively, could I not depreciate the property (which i did not do for the past 2 years in error and need to file amendments) and file a Form 3115 (application for change in accounting method) in the year in which I sell the property to catch up and claim all the the missing depreciation all at once?

Would you recommend, or do you know of alternative options that would support my situation?

Will there be better alternatives to using them—absolutely.

IRA custodian allowing alternative investments. 2.

I would rather put my money into other investments (stocks, peer-to-peer lending, etc) that consistently return 8+% and look into other alternate methods of gaining experience. 

Some single families in need of some repair, combined with the premium rents for SF's ( especially if you allow dogs) might be an interesting alternative. 

Aside from one lender, who has provided above average client service (rates a little too high so looking for alternatives), I have yet to find a lender with whom I'd like to build a long-term relationship to add to my team and build my business. 

Both can be pricey, so an alternative is to ask a friend or broker with access to let you hop on and collect names and contact info for 20-30 minutes.

Another alternative is to "trade" investments.

The house rents for $850/mo, and I think I could push it to $950, give or take - but the debt payments (30-year loan at 4.75 or 5%) and taxes and insurance would take up all of that, leaving nothing for renovations.One alternative I’ve pondered would be to secure it and then seller-finance it to an owner-occupant.