Where to get the most recent and accurate data for things like:Unemployment dataPopulation growthJob diversity and top employers in the areaVacancy rates (eg huduser.org)Property taxes and jnsurance costsI saw bp pro and reventure and a bunch of other websites provide some of this data, but i wonder how accurate and recent it is.

@Anita Z.I recommend finding an accountant who specializes in real estate taxation, tax planning and financial planning.

STR seems to have better tax benefits (in the right market) but is it worth it at a distance ???

To defer all tax you must purchase in total at least as much as your net sale.

I've been buried with tax preparation and a couple projects, so BP moved from the back burner to completely off the stove!

Specifically:Will the lender only consider the rental income from the two legally zoned units, even though all three rental incomes are declared on your tax return?

What are true returns for comparison, before or after Income taxes? 

If 1031 is to be implemented it must be done on the property level.2. 1031 generally does not apply to IRAs since they are tax-exempt. 3.

If you need financial help, ask under the "Finance, Tax, and Legal" forum.

This is an example of private lending which is different than the IRA owning real estate and does not trigger UDFI/UBIT tax.