Focus on buying below market value, running numbers first (cash flow, 1% rule), and choosing a landlord-friendly location with job growth.

The 1031 exchange rule to defer your tax is two part 1) reinvest all your proceeds and 2) purchase a property (or properties / DSTs/TICs) with an equal or greater market value.  

But having those rules on paper was like carrying a big stick—great to wield when needed but mostly a deterrent.

A self-directed IRA could be a good way to defer taxes, but there are some rules to keep in mind—like keeping all the income in the IRA until retirement.

Gaining valuable insights into the local market.Always consider that Jackson County has a LOT of variability in KC proper and then uniques submarkets of LS, BS, Independence, Raytown, Grandview, etc all with their own local city governments, rules and regulations, each with their own uniques submarkets of their own...Happy to chat and share my knowledge and experience.2.

And I will state different jurisdictions have different rules, processes, expectations, etc.In my area you are required to have a permit to swap a water heater.

A good rule of thumb is to have 3-6 months of expenses (mortgage, utilities, insurance, etc.) set aside per property for emergencies.

Additionally, the price point is still cheap enough to find the 1% rule and positive cash flow and there's amazing appreciation potential.

Asking in the correct forum will get a better response.Read the RULES!

Consider the "2 of the last 5 year rule" to avoid capital gains.