We have a lot of equity spread out over 13 of rental properties, and we don't qualify for a home mortgage to be sold on the secondary market due to so much self-employment income. 

I am wondering specifically in the context of if you’re trying to qualify for a mortgage/loan/etc from a bank type of institution?  

The side that is business use you could exchange, the personal use would not be eligible for exchange however if you live their 2 years that side may qualify for the Section 121 gain exclusion.There are costs to completing a 1031 and timing requirements - with just paint and a little sweat equity how much value do you think you created? 

You will want to work with a qualified professional  (e.g., CPA or attorney) on this type of transaction. 

I suggest you renting to the most qualified tenant, whether they work in them military or not, I mean you can try and focus on it, but if no military apply-- then what? 

Any tax attorneys/CPA's or other qualified folks on here that can chime in on how this well affect the REI biz?

Ask them if they are on board and can work with you.

I say to multiple applicants, I've got several others also pending, I do require if approved full deposit and lease signed within 36 hours. so if that doesn't get completed I take the next person qualified in line. 

Talk to your local bank/credit union to see what type of financing you qualify for.

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