As far as you allowing the seller to back out a contract that is a choice you would Need to decide if it was worth the hassle In fighting for your right to purchase the property.Why were the sellers saying that they were having issues with on their side?

I've heard good things about Nebo Realty as a low cost broker option.EXP has more recently been a broker of choice due to the MLM pay structure. 

If you are concerned about material choice get an estimate from your roofers that lists out the exact materials they are using and then if you want to question them or ask them to change materials you can do that. 

Because I have the ability to go to college for free (g.i bill) I have also been considering going back to school to study something that could be beneficial to my business.

Most of us have been faced with those choices at one time or another.

Any advice on what the rental market is like in Redding and whether that’s a smart choice in this hot market?

Conventional or government style loan considers a lease as a permanent lifestyle choice.

There are lots of other considerations here, too, so definitely consult with a CPA who's well-versed in choice of entity and real estate.

Is this a good idea and/or do you have better recommendations for jobs choices?

Buying a beneficial interest in a DST qualifies as replacement property for a 1031 Exchange.