Yes, succeeding in Real Estate takes time and effort, but yes, it can be done, as these folks demonstrate.

She will not allow showings unless prospective purchasers demonstrate they have the ability to purchase her property."

Upon his death the old man demonstrated his gratitude by bequeathing his home to the caregiver so she could vacate her mobile home and become a real property owner.  

In a 1031, it needs to be like for like and the sale demonstrating owner's name.

We rent to a decent number of younger, single women and I always recommend to them when they bring this up that they either consider not doing it, or maintaining the financial lease in their name only with the boyfriend as a resident at the pleasure of the authorized tenant - this way, when the inevitable domestic police call occurs, she has a greater chance of not being put out of her own home by demonstrating that he's only there at her pleasure and that she's the responsible party on the lease.

But most folks feel comfortable with anything more than a year unless there are mitigating circumstances that could demonstrate that your original intent was to hold.

Since you've never lived in it the bar to demonstrate your intent to hold for investment would be pretty low - even if your were keeping your options open to hold for investment or maybe move into one day.Caveat - If you want to buy something in or near the beltway using the 1031 exchange you'll need to also purchase the new property with the intent to hold for investment use. 

@Scott Bell I wish they had better demonstration on the use of the calculator.

I think a lot of it comes down to developing a good relationship with a local lender and demonstrating you have a good team/plan in place.

You can send thank you cards and tip during the holidays to demonstrate that you value the relationship, etc.