If you're able to save $50-100K per year for 14 years (when you're 40), a combination of getting solid deals, paying down debt, and having a target goal of income vs expenses, it's definitely doable.  

I am currently located in The Bay Area, California and I am little nervous about  investing out of state but I thought I would give other cheaper markets a shot other than my backyard which is expensive.

Partner Driven financed the Main St deal by covering 100% of the $20,000 purchase price and $45,000 renovation budget, ensuring Amanda Frecks could focus entirely on project execution without the stress of upfront expenses.

Once you have completed the consolidation portion of your 1031 exchange you now own a more expensive (and probably really nice) property that it must be your intent to hold for investment use. 

The tenants enjoy using the interface, it is simple to communicate with them as a whole or individually, collect rent payments and see when they are in transit, offer CC payment options at tenants expense, track maintenance request, share documents, and lease the property.Short comings are their financial portion.

I get 4 expensive bookings from them for every 1 from airbnb.

The calculator estimates that operating expenses are equal to 50% of the monthly income.  50% is a rough guide. 

Operationally, it's easier in multifamily and you'll have cost-saving opportunities as well when it comes to certain expenses.

I am no expert by any means but I thought I would drop my opinion here. 1) Should I focus on duplex since they're most likely less expensive in my area in category A or B properties, or aim for more units?

If they work independently, set their schedule, and use their resources, they might qualify as a 1099 contractor, but misclassification risks IRS penalties.Wages for W-2 employees and payments to 1099 contractors are both deductible business expenses, but compliance is key.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.