I have done many 1031, and never did a Reverse 1031 and was advised by the Qualified Intermediary that they are more difficult and expensive. 

As I'm sure you can imagine, it's been incredibly difficult for even the claims adjustors to gain access to the properties.

I am not sure what you mean by the seller making life difficult. 

Some of these properties will need significant reno so the first financing may be difficult to acquire.

I've been self-employed for only 6 months, and loans are proving difficult to come by despite my great credit (not to brag, I'm moreso frustrated and seeking help).

If you do something that is too high end or bold compared to what is available in the neighborhood, the exit could be very difficult 

Someone with a better understanding will comment I’m sure but I tend to think it will be a difficult move.  

@Victor Yang To use the rental losses to offset any active income (W2), you'd have meet Real Estate Professional status (which would be difficult to do with a W2 job because you'd have to work more on real estate than any other job to qualify) OR have an AGI of $150K or less.

Very difficult to be successful with this program when buying in these lower tier markets unless you are hands on as you say and yes, scale is necessary to achieve efficiencies.

De nada 😎I don't know that market at all (FYI, I don't see this is other Midwest markets where my CFO clients buy properties), but I suspect it's related to perhaps the international investors that agent may work with...they are often cash buyers as it's very difficult to borrow here if you're not a U.S. citizen.