I could not find e1031xchange as a business entity in the State of New York (https://apps.dos.ny.gov/public...).

If they work independently, set their schedule, and use their resources, they might qualify as a 1099 contractor, but misclassification risks IRS penalties.Wages for W-2 employees and payments to 1099 contractors are both deductible business expenses, but compliance is key.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

They take good care of the properties, but there's not enough attention given to pricing strategy and they spend money like nobody's business (not a problem when they were spending their own money on the master lease model, but a BIG problem when they were suddenly spending OUR money as the PM).

It offers flexibility as a landlord to be able to offer more or less rooms as needed, protection to the landlord in that you can hedge with adding LTR or STR to the mix, and simplification to the business as your only dealing with one address.

Life and business are complicated.

Quote from @Jeff Skinner: I am just getting started in my real estate business. 

We both have busy W2's and don't have the time right now to do more (which I'd love to do at some point).

A good real estate accountant can save you thousands of dollars by leveraging entity selection and formation, tax deductions, cost segregations, bonus depreciation and tax planning.I recommend finding an accountant specializing in real estate taxation, business taxation, financial planning and tax planning.Consider working with your accountant remotely to expand your options.I would also recommend looking for an accountant willing to work with you throughout the year.

You want a platform that seamlessly integrates with your CRM and customizable for your business.

I'd prefer a small business.