If you need to make an investment model change, take some time to gather info, contemplate the options, and make a business decision.

I’ve been contemplating the idea of avoiding SFH altogether and strictly focusing on a MF strategy.  

To get into that path of progress, you are going to have to get a feel to see what areas are set for improvement by talking to locals, surveying the landscape and trends, contemplating potential new transit lines or nearby large developments, etc...

Contemplating whether or not to start the process before the end of the year.

I have been contemplating getting an organization/management tool to help keep everything on track as I continue to scale.  

I am contemplating writing into leases a anticipated annual 2.9% rent increase.In short, I run my properties as a for-profit business and would anticipate increasing rents going forward - not discounting them.

However, in between monthly, we probably have quie a few days vacant, so we're contemplating renting this long term, but don't want to get trapped with the rent controlled tenants.

I would encourage you to really dig deep and seriously contemplate the answer to this question.

I was attempting to contemplate the potential of a business model that could offer a family cash flow in-perpetuity by removing the ability of potential heirs selling the golden goose. 

If it holds then you have gained the benefits of a 1031 exchange.1031's can get complex so sellers contemplating them should know all the potential risks now and down the road before taking steps to buy another property.I am not a 1031 expert.