The 1031 exchange is only for investment property to investment property.In your mom's case, she probably qualifies for the primary residence exemption and the first $250K of profit in her sale would be tax free. 

I am mainly looking for Rookies like me to combine our knowledge pool and maybe a capital pool if it works.

My student rental property was registered as a fraternity without my knowledge or permission, which I would have never given. 

Feel free to reach out with any questions. 

an LLC / Partnership and syndication are not mutually exclusive.You can have an LLC that is a syndication.You can also have an LLC that is not a syndication.Are you engaging with the accountant / attorney on a paid consultation or a free consultation?

Feel free to shoot me some specific questions if you want some help.

I have been researching on how to start the process of investing and I’ve talked to a few people who are more knowledgeable than me in real estate.

It depends on various factors, including your experience, market knowledge, financial situation, and the specifics of the property and location.

SFH's are great but its a better bang for the buck if you can find a 2-4 unit in most cases a even a duplex.If you ever have any specific questions feel free to reach out I am always open to talk REI.

We personally pull our specific criteria lists for residential tear downs for development from Remine and Realist (We have access to both as licensed realtors in NJ for free).