If you have never completed a regular 1031 exchange I can not recommend a reverse 1031 exchange.

If you're going to make a lot of changes, I recommend consulting an attorney to ensure you're updated on the laws.

Yesterday, I applied for a loan through a couple program approved lenders and an investment friendly lender recommended by bigger pockets.

In general, I have found everyone seems to recommend the Land Conquest free lessons and the Turning Profit podcasts.

A living trust I recommend for estate planning - that is all it does.

Are there any recommendations for other land ed courses I should consider to get even more information?

But if seller was in such financial straights to have any risk of doing such, I wouldn't recommend getting into a C4D, there is other mechanisms of potential. namely, assuming the mortgage. 

Sold with extra lot for value increase Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

That is without the Santa Ana winds.They did make a recommendation to LA to install large dams or holding tanks for sea water high in the hills and pump from the ocean.

Quote from @Daniel Johnson: For anyone investing - can you recommend a investor-focused realtor in Nova Scotia?