Actually, it is possible do structure a 1031 Exchange on the sale of one or more relinquished properties and then using the proceeds through the 1031 Exchange to construct improvements on real property you already own.

The secret to dominating the world of off-market acquisitions isn’t about delivering a slick pitch or being pushy—it’s about becoming the trusted, go-to problem solver that sellers want to work with.

Send me a Direct Message and I will be able to point you in the right direction.All the best.

And, that people will, over the next 30 years grow very rich with New York real estate, the outliers growing 2-5 orders of magnitude more wealthy than their peers in the Midwest.     

Networking with local investors through BiggerPockets, Facebook, and meetups can help you navigate the market, while avoiding common mistakes like underestimating expenses, poor tenant screening, and hiring the wrong property manager.Good luck!

Quote from @Victor Yang: If I gift a house, what amount will go towards the lifetime gift limit, the amount i purchased the house for, or the current FMV?

It uses the same data.

What are you looking to achieve in the short, mid, long term?

I have my notebook next to the area where I keep the paperwork, so it is easier to keep track of things. 

Also, the houses that we like the most usually have the strongest appreciation.