I'm not sure why someone would forgo this critical step?? 

You have 45 calendar days to identify potential replacement properties as part of your 1031 Exchange transaction, and you have 180 calendar days to complete your entire 1031 Exchange.One of the critical elements of structuring a successful 1031 Exchange transaction is the intent to acquire replacement property that will be held as rental, investment or business use.

Try looking inside your bank accounts and spending habits to criticize yourself more than the bank.

I mean if I have foundation issues or frame going out or something, but when I am talking cosmetics like paint and carpet on a house thats under 20 years old, you would have to be pretty stupid to be that much off.I mean, I like constructive criticism, like some of the comments above.

I'd love to hear how you got started, how you generate leads, and/or any advice/suggestions/criticism.

First the weeping tile is connected, second the gravel is placed, third the tamping machine is hauled away (note this is another example of why it is critical to have the stairs installed before the basement work begins), and finally the poly and rebar is installed over the gravel.We had the heaters running overnight and the interiors of the basement warmed enough to melt any frost in the ground.

By the way, I am a fierce critic of Southern California's inability to add density housing.  

Your issue isn't with the other house, it's you have a lease, are paying rent on time, and are losing utilities that are critical to the habitability of the house.I would start with a letter to your landlord or whomever is listed on the lease as the property manager.

The good news is this:  once you do a good deal or two with your first set of investors and prove yourself, they will start referring other investors to you and your business will start to grow exponentially from there.Finally, what @Lennon Lee said is critical as you do NOT want to get on the bad side of the SEC! 

But those are different criticisms (and probably more valid than the one you're trying to make).