I've currently serving overseas in Germany, which I've used as an excuse to remain on the sidelines. 

We've served a Time of the Essence (even accepting the incomplete repairs) and it's still been crickets from the Seller’s end.

I have also thought that this could serve as somewhat of a side income by being a part time agent (I have a full time job) and help gain first hand experience in real estate.

@Kole Moore given the current environment, you’re best served with investing in liquid assets which is not real estate or syndications.

The constable has been serving notices in my area.

I mention this because the more you communicate with your PM and let him know the level of care and investment you want to take in your home the better they can serve you.

He is in Copperas Cove and serves the general area.

For instance making the distinction between a gas line that serves a stove as personal property vs a gas line that serves the heater system and so is real property.   

In that situation no need for a 1031 exchange.I am also a buy and hold investor but at some point the equity held in that property will be better served allocated somewhere else.

I would be more than happy to offer my services as a RE agent to anyone that needs help, I'm licensed in IL and serve all of Lake county, Northern Cook, northern Dupage and eastern McHenry counties.