I'm refreshing it with paint, floor, and more, and then I want to do a 1031 exchange in 2022.

The renovation wouldn’t be drastic either, it would mainly be flooring, paint, new bathroom sink/cabinetry and bathroom reglazing. 

Than use VA home loan to buy either SF again or multifamily that can have a little TLC like (new paint, new floors...I'm not looking for crazy major construction project for my next property) But that will add value to the property after a year because 1. it's been renovated 2. it's going to be close to military installations 3.

If you could choose anything, something that needs paint and carpet rehab?

We helped remove the old tenants, cleaned out the house and spent $20,000 on floor, paint, repairs and upgrades.

They had bee painted a few times, and were an off or aged white. 

Sanding eves, Caulking, painting the exterior, replacing hardware throughout the house, some yard improvements etc.

If the place doesn't seem like it needs any real repairs (besides cleaning, paint, and maybe fixing a cabinet) does that change how you would approach the situation?

something out of the 80s that's got good bones with more modern construction materials that you can replace flooring, paint, trim, windows, etc and do it as you have time for.If you answered "yes" or "potentially, yes" to #1, I suggest networking with other investors and learning what landlord life is like and if it makes sense for you in the short-term with the eventual goal of hiring property management later on. 

Hopefully there is someone out there you can recommend who is knowledgeable and experienced but still has the time to work with a newbie like myself.This duplex seems to need a new kitchen, paint, and maybe some new flooring, but who knows what the inspection will turn up.