Now we have a full leadership team handling various roles. 

I’m a full-time sales professional at a global GSI, so I’m seeking relatively efficient strategies.Has anyone successfully used cash-out refinances, 1031 exchanges, or other equity-based approaches to boost income?

I lived well below my means, worked a full time job for years while doing this on the side, persisted when others did not... and now I am enjoying the fruits of my labor.  

You filed two full year tax cycles and the numbers are similar (no greater variant than 1%) they maybe yes.Generally depreciation is added back as income BUT only the 40% portion you own not all of it.

I am also planning on using a property manager as I have an 8 - 5 full time job.

I understand that there are reasons that full title searches on auction properties cannot be done but through many BP and other books understand there are some "best effort" services in some areas. 

If you convert a main home to a rental,  you do not get the full $500k exclusion.

Bigger Pockets is a great place for education and networking and is full of great content.I recommend that you check out the following resources:1.

It also is heavily full of risk. 

Existing property full stabilized being sold off by the developer or 2nd or 3rd generation owner.5.