It looks like I can occupy one side of the duplex as long as when I sell the duplex that side isn't considered 1031 tax deferred.My question is can I get an owner occupy 5 percent downpayment mortgage on the duplex if it is a partial 1031 exchange?

I recommend reading “Long-Distance Real Estate Investing: How to Buy, Rehab, and Manage Out-of-State Rental Properties” - I found it to be very helpful when I got started investing 2.5 years ago.

I have just completed a full remodel of the basement unit which will be up for rent here soon and there is a long term tenant in the cottage house in the back.

You can buy lots of affordable books online (Short-Term Rental, Long-Term Growth is a good one to start with) and I would also recommend subscribing to podcasts, publications etc.

Hello,I'm a rookie real estate investor currently house hacking in the greater Asheville NC area looking to purchase a mid or long term rental property in a nearby area.

.* One party owns the entire property and the other has a long leasehold.

As long as your on the list you're good as long as you follow the same rules as everyone else. 

I'm looking for 300k for a portfolio of long term rentals. 

. - they have 3 local and 3 out of state long term rentals.- the 3 local need a lot of work, she has been cutting rent due to not having updated flooring, appliances, etc.

I am from AZ, so wrote two big long ones for you, with the second one having specific cities mentioned.