*By the way, since I am just starting out and hustling like mad, I'd be happy to meet-up with anyone in the Northern California region to collaborate, discuss, etc...!

Hello Denise-Dave Foster is correct above that 1031 exchanges are federally mandated under IRS taxcode Section 1031 and any qualified QI with a national presence should be able to handle your transaction.Several items for consideration:  choose a QI that has experience working outside a defined geographic area and has proper bonding & escrow accounts established to protect your funds.Feel free to pm me if you have additional questions.

HOWEVER, if you own a transitional housing property, (HUD-VASH, Sober Living, Foster home, Senior Living, etc.)

Also did you have systems in place for the assistant or you came up with it during your collaboration? 

If you are not savvy in this area, pay to have some one set up your chart of accounts or find someone you can collaborate with. 

Coincidentally, it was a red eared slider and we later fostered him for a couple of years without incident. 

They are the bigger fish, with the upper hand, but if they like you and you can figure out a way to collaborate instead of compete, it could be mutually beneficial. 

From him, we learned that realtors must work cohesively, in collaboration of thoughts and actions to reach our similar goals at the end. 

@Rachel Foster thank you!

@Dave Foster thank you Dave!