Hello, I am a real estate agent in San Diego, I help a lot of investors with 1031's and it was recently brought to my attention that DST's and TIC's qualify for 1031 exchanges and I was curious to see if anyone had any insight as to how vet a good DST or TIC. 

The firm also heavily focused on 1031 exchange transactions which gave me a lot of insight to that part of the business as well. 

No deal in sight...its called underwater we as  wholesalers need equity to make a deaal happen.

To answer  your other question about the rent-ability, reach out to local experts, such folks as property managers, RE agents, local investors and get feedback from them.

I should note that I've seen quite a few useful resources listed on these forum responses and it has certainly provided some great insights into where to get started, which locations to consider, and other strategies to consider.

Any experts or those that have struggled initially can you please share your experience and advice on what I should do to get the ball rolling.

I would suggest getting to know the market and try to rent in the area you plan to invest in so you can better solidify yourself as a market expert.

I'm not sure if you're still wanting responses on this post but I'm working with a lending broker based out of Orange County and have some insight from my experiences right now. 

Maybe you'll get lucky and find something.Disclaimer: Consider this 2 cents worth of advice as I'm no expert so it may be all it's worth. :-)

Great answer Brian and as usual, candid and insightful.