I'm basically looking for input in the following:Option 1: Buy a couple of properties and split the money from the 1031 exchange for the down payments.

First, I'd suggest getting familiar with the basics of real estate investing—property types, financing, and market analysis.

It's basically dead in most areas.

The most commonly listed minimum is 5.5sqft.6 - Heating and Cooling element.

The only real offer I got through FF was for $1700 a month, and I'd rather leave it empty than take that and pay for the heating bills and the extra wear and tear of long term renters.

But basically no take up. 

Also, "On The Market" has some great content relating to market trends--does a great job of helping you understand the basics of the REI markets.

I flip in areas I'm familiar with but even if not, it's not complicated to formulate comps from basic google searches.

Basically could say im a street kid who abandoned all the ******** and people from that life two decades ago and I desired more and achieved it both in monetary and goodness.

In our lovely state of WA once the removal is approved, it could take another week or two until the sheriff gets to the property and posts the legalese paperwork on the door(they are busy), basically telling the bum that he will be tossed on XX date.