In my mind, the easiest way to identify the best Self-Directed provider is by making the SAFE decision; an acronym that represents the provider's Specialization, Account fees, Funding time frame and Education.  

I immediately identify wrong moves and missed opportunities that had the borrower been educated ahead of time, they would not be in such a position.My advice is the 5 PsPrior Planning Prevents P_ ss Poor Performance  It's what you do in advance as well as what you do after the purchase, that collectively over time will net more wealth.

.- The 45 day timeline to identify up to 3 properties, 1 of which I absolutely must purchase (required by the 1031 exchange), is obviously a very short timeline. 

First thing would be to identify what state you want to invest in.

If something breaks between pre and post walkthrough its far easier to identify the tenant causing the issue.Tenant screening is important; some folks have suggested some ideas to help.

In my opinion your first step is identifying your team.

You may have missed it my original post that I have a fair sum of money in another 1031 that I have to spend - trying to identify/close on a bunch of SF units within the time constraints is no fun. 

I believe you must identify potential purchases within 45 days and must close on one of those properties within 6 months.

I don't know anything about Spring, TX, but I do know that you need to identify your buying criteria and make sure it is one that aligns with your goals as an investor.

@ Jay Hinrichs - A low Financially Stability Score can identify people who are likely to be struggling.