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. 

If you are going to 1031 then don't touch the money hand it to a qualified intermediary for an exchange.

But there's nothing wrong with paying a broker, who might be a true intermediary, a point or two to setup your loan and interface with the lender.

This does not always equate to a bad arrangement being that some agents working in intermediary statuses are quite honest.

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 check with your CPA and a 1031 intermediary.

While I believe that the potential income per hour spent might be worth it if the end investor spends his time knocking on doors, I don’t see how it can be a profitable use of time for a financial intermediary.

The qualified intermediary will be your guide through the maze.   

Here’s the plan: Enter into an exchange agreement with a Qualified Intermediary and sell the duplex as part of the exchange.