The alternative is to partner up with experience and bring the funds in.Here're some of the options you have for #1 above:1) 1031 into NNN as you mentioned 2) 1031 into DST (pretty passive)3) 1031 into a syndication as long as it is done via TIC (tenancy in common structure)As for #2 above:You can potentially buy MHP or MFH but again either you need to learn how to do it first or partner up with an experienced investor. 

You can't just come on BP, and expect experienced landlords to dump everything you need to know in one post.Learn to use the search feature on BP.

My brother lives in a very high demand area (State College PA) and wants to convert his garage into a rental/Airbnb option, but he’s experiencing difficulties with the cities.

And of course cafes, cool restaurants, yoga and crossfit places are always good. 

--I am simply an inexperienced newbie (with one bad experience as an accidental landlord under my belt) looking for insight on deal analysis techniques from more experienced professionals.  

Your response does help destroy and fortify thought of my own, anytime I can hear what others have experienced it of great help to me.

I’m currently living in a duplex I own, but am looking to buy a single home using the 203k loan and was wondering if anyone knows any professionals I can use for this to happen; experienced real estate agents with 203k loans, loan officers, contractors?

Any thoughts from people getting started and experienced investors would be appreciated! 

My credit score is over 780 so I feel a 3% down conventional would be ideal, and within one to two years, have the HELOC on my condo (when I mention HELOC, it's the one on my condo)paid off and actually put down 20%-30% for an actual rental property.More experienced real estate moguls, what would you do to speed things along so I could buy another property sooner rather than later? 

I live in California, and I am currently experiencing that is freaking me out.