@Francine Geike If the investment property doesn't seem to bring in enough cash flow to comfortablyprovide a return, a 1031 exchange might be a good option for you.

Exchange ideas here and there. 

Yes you can raise money for deals and you put in the sweat equity in exchange for cash.

If you’re comfortable with the tenant risk and low cash flow in exchange for a solid property in good condition with long-term appreciation potential, then proceeding could make sense, maybe you you can negotiate some concessions?  

I am hoping to find an opportunity to help an established Investor with any administrative tasks, social media, or marketing in exchange for a chance to learn.

OrchardOrchard allows you to exchange the current equity in your home for the purchase of a new home, and then selling your old home after the purchase.

You can't compete against the all-inclusives unless you offer complimentary food and booze or you're cheap, as you seem to be confirming.This being said:1) Properties in Mexico/Cancun trade in USD so you have no foreign exchange risk in Mexico while properties in Colombia are traded in COP, the Colombian peso, which has been tanking over the years, eliminating any hope for capital gains for American investors.2) You can get a mortgage in Mexico but you can't in Colombia so even with lower revenue, Cancun would likely still be more profitable, even if you don't take capital gains into account.3) The political risk is much higher in Colombia, especially at this present time.Is Cartagena a bad investment?

I exchanged information with them and would stop by their projects for the next month to see their progress.

Am I able to 1031 exchange any of the money (the 20% down payment?)  

This is particularly useful if you find a lower-cost property that needs some updates to attract high-quality tenants.Reverse Exchanges and Parking Arrangements: If you spot a great investment opportunity before selling your current property, consider using a reverse exchange.