I've performed a few 1031's and had to pay initial fees.

Can I use a 1031 exchange to sell property in "my name", put the funds with a QI who then purchases new property in the name of an LLC I form with someone else?

Your desire to travel out of country.You cannot do a 1031 exchange from the US to non-US property. 

Security deposit amountYou can find plenty of examples by searching for "tenant estoppel certificate doc" or exchanging "doc" with "pdf" for more options.Here is an example and explanation: Sample EstoppelSome have a lot of legal jargon but this document does not need to be so detailed.

It was a 1031 exchange.   

How the money is distributed at closing doesn’t change your tax situation unless you did something like a 1031 exchange where you would not actually receive any money - the money would go towards another real estate purchase - to which there are a lot of rules. all the best!

Quote from @Olga Daisel: You offered to terminate his agreement early in exchange for three months of rent.

I’m comfortable sacrificing a bit on revenue in exchange for steady cash flow, lower expenses, and fewer headaches.However, if you come across a standout property with a pool and great amenities in Scottsdale, it could be very beneficial during spring training or for bachelor/bachelorette parties.

I know for a lot of investors it is common to want to hold onto a door for a couple of years then 1031 to a more expensive property to grow their portfolio.Me being someone that has a lot of available cash but currently 0 properties.

Proceeds to be used for 1031/DST, LLC would then be owner of record for 1031/DST.