I have properties that I'm selling to buy REIT mutual funds as I'm nearing retirement (don't want to deal with the hassles). Any advice on how to not get killed in taxes as I make this transaction?  Less than $1 mill...

If you're willing to drop the price $100, just do it and find a renter that's ready to rent sooner.In my experience, reducing rent or holding a property longer for someone does not make them better tenants.

The resources i have , the team is what i would like to solidify What team members i need - Professional real estate Tax accountant , that knows how to reduce taxes to $ 0 little by little . ( tom wheelwright ) Mortgage brokers who can get loans for me at decent rates with good amortization .

There are only two possible buyers, a homeowner and/or REI.a - Homeowner is the only one of the two that would pay current price...that is if they were interested in buying  house with a tenant in it...which they are not.b - REI not likely to pay full price because the property wouldn't cash flow then.If seller/REI wants to sell, they need to at a reduced price...which is all profit anyway, so they would agree to it. 

Will an increase of temperatures (as Winter ends), reduce the rate of the spread?

Is there ways to help reduce those costs other than upgrading to energy efficient appliances in the future. i did see a mention of the Clean Reads program for water in the Cleveland area for more accurate measurements if anyone can help explain that a little more.

Proceeds won't go to reduce their balance, they will simply foreclose.

The rate we were told was 5.5%, and that's with paying an additional 3,535 at closing to reduce it to that.

My business partner and I have been looking to access a quality contractor, but we do not have a ready made checklist to reduce the risk?

Reduce your risk.