@Arthur Wilson III if you are looking for a mentor I would highly recommend getting involved in/attending any real estate investor associations in your area or any BP meet ups, like you already mentioned.

In IL, we have attorneys involved on every deal.

I work with a great team who is in the top ten for the company and have been involved with RE for over 17 years. 

The 1031 involves timing and discipline. 

(especially if you're looking to reside in the property part-time) Short term rental by airbnb/vrbo is one possible solution to offset the cost, but you'd be faced with the tax in full and everything involved with property management would apply. 

Trying to become a lot more involved on Bigger Pockets as it seems to be the way to go these days when trying to connect globally.

I would definitely get the attorney involved in writing a letter, so that they see that you're serious. 

The days the angel investor realize they are betting on non-profitable companies in SFBA are not too far.

Even if you have to look outside of your immediate area to make that happen, that may be the best bet.

I'd imagine selling + 1031 exchange would be your best bet, although you can probably get an 80% ltv line of credit through Penfed if you want a different route.