Do these messages disclose that you aren't speaking with the actual owner if you aren't? 

I keep hearing that costs of labor and supplies are rising (when aren't they?)

Wish I had the skills to build a spread sheet but computers aren’t my strength.

I get that there are delays and behind the scenes, dealing with late suppliers, the city authorities being difficult, but I thought for sure I would be further along than this. 

You aren't trying to nickel and dime people but just to curb abuse so it should be generous.

@Tim Hem The Section 121 Exclusion and 1031 aren't mutually exclusive.

I then decided to modify my criteria to look for deals that were 50+ units and found that I had much more success in that space because most credible bigger buyers aren't looking at deals that are smaller than 100 units. 

(Which aren’t taxed as capital gains.)

They aren't spending their own money, so they are less likely to take care of the rental or follow rules.

@Tony SchmuckerYou've done great narrowing it down, but focus on cities you and your spouse would enjoy living in—numbers aren't everything.