My best advice would be to begin networking as much as possible and find a mentor.You've already taken the first step which is gaining knowledge.

For example, let’s say someone sets an annual goal of cash-flowing $120k ($10k/month) a year in passive income, and then sets a quarterly milestone of acquiring 20 units.

Are you looking to actively invest or do it passively? 

So yes you can exchange it to save capital gains taxes on $266k plus 19 years of depreciation recapture.

Passive income.

Even if I’m only netting $500 per property, it’s still a solid way to generate passive income.I want to be as hands-off as possible.

(Hands-off or hands-on.)I like STRs as a way to make money while you wait for a property to gain value, but at least for us, cash flow is simply the icing.

I know the deferment period for capital gains is almost up, but what are the pros and Cons of an OZF vs a traditional 1031?

I've had more success gaining the attention of ALE and other companies by having more properties to offer them.

Ensure compliance with local laws, start with smaller loans to gain experience, monitor your investments regularly, and trust your instincts as you navigate this venture.I myself, as a PML.