They are mostly brand new properties though so I am not sure how important that is in determining how much I can sell the property for if it's going to be refurbished anyway.

Other advantages of doing this --  vet your local contractors  for future repair work -  interview / pick PM  while still an area . 

That can definitely determine where would be better suited for you. 

I doubt someone could determine what my needs are without meeting with me.I do prefer to have referral partners that have specialties that I can refer people with that specific need to them.So, if I know a financial planner does fixed-price financial plans for high net worth individuals and a client asks me about that, they'd get that referral.

Also, if you're really determined to post-pone your taxes, go with DST option but chose the one that allows you to sell it in a few years (into yet another 1031 exchange). 

Another scenario is if I buy a property from a wholesaler who wants me to pay all of the closing costs, what would those be based on the logic that in this case im paying both the buyers and sellers closing costs.I have purchased a few houses and I have read a few books on flipping and wholesaling, Im just having trouble understanding what values to put in the calculators to determine my Maximum offer amount. 

In my town the city picks up for residences but not commercial and that is another 100/mo

If possible, agree to buy the materials yourself and have the contractor pick them up. 

Once you pick your strategy then hone in on that with books and podcast.

So do not give up if this what you are determined to do.