And of course the QI plays a key role for you as your guide through the maze of 1031 regulation.

I have a headache pier and beam foundation SF home that ultimately required a $30k complete redo of the foundation and flooring in the beginning of April.  

Welcome to @Onesmus HangulaThe Path to Purchase would be a good guide https://www.biggerpockets.com/intro-to-rei/overview

Probably, but it's a lot easier if someone with experience is guiding you through the process.

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/search/usersSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: https://www.biggerpockets.com/podcastIf you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.

Going to a local investing event and finding other professionals who would want you to guide them and get started in the journey.

Have the tenant initial and sign, hand them a packet on how to protect themselves from lead paint, and you're done.Hundreds of rentals and I've never, ever seen a Landlord with knowledge of lead paint.EPA Guide For Buyers, Renters, Landlords

Cleveland is the one I am most familiar with and it's also very popular with investors across the USA so I figured you'd get some value out of reading The Ultimate Guide to Grading Cleveland Neighborhoods.

find a mentor to help you out and kind of guide you where you want to go

As far as agents go, I'd be glad to guide you in this process.