We will either refinance or open a HELOC to facilitate future deals.

2) Does doing this type of upgrade without a permit dissuade future buyers?

I feel that starting early is beneficial for the future.

Now have decided to just put the funds from the sale of the 1031 into escrow while deciding on which future properties to purchase. who does the check get made out to in this case?

If not, past returns should be a good indicator of future performance.

@Sandy NormanWelcome to BP, and congratulations on making the decision to invest in your future via real estate.I have written a few blog posts that may help you get started here on BP, and with your investing.

This whole meeting and initial book reading stirred the memories I had of my father and we can’t help but to continue where he left off and build a legacy for our future family.

A few people will get lucky, time the market perfectly and make huge returns compared to the other 90% that get into it that will do worse than the S&P 500.In other ways Real Estate is different though - first "Everyone will always need housing" unlike Bitcoin or Pork Belly Futures. 

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

@Justin HeitterSounds great except your line saying I want to pay this off as fast as possible.Do your research but you will probably be much better off saving up down payment for future properties than paying off the first one before moving on.