We're one of the larger home buyers in the Houston area and even with all systems running 24/7, we sometimes have trouble finding enough deals.This may be a biased statement because I am a wholesaler, but if you want a consistent stream of decent deals without spending the absurd amount of time and money required to find the deals, the best way to go is to connect with the leading wholesalers in your area. 

I've noticed a consistent trend -in my area- of flipped houses not having hardware/handles on the brand new kitchen cabinets.

Something to consider: is it going to be a pain to collect rent money consistently?

-Henry FordAnything worth accomplishing is competitive and not easy to achieve.Here are some tips:Market consistently - If you are always marketing, you will get leads. 

If you could use some information on analyzing deals there is a BP Free How To Guide for that too.Lastly, as an owner occupied, some states do allow you to put additional limits on who you rent to but it is best practice to be consistent and always follow Fair Housing regulations.

Short of replacing the piping with consistent material, heat tape wrapped around the piping and enclosing it in a highly insulated enclosure is going to be necessary. 

(Direct to owners, FSBO)So having said that, the biggest challenge is to stay consistent. 

Our income consists of cash flow from rental income from 40 SFH we own and manage ourselves (none of the homes have traditional mortgages tied to them).

I am new to the whole real estate game.I currently reside in Chattanooga, TN.Chattanooga is consistently growing and I want a piece of the action, the only problem is that for my budget ( I don't have any investors) the only thing I can afford is in an "up and coming" neighborhood.

You'll want to make sure that you continue reporting the property on your tax return consistently and your form 8824 which reports the 1031 to the service will be on your personal return as well.