My wife and I have just executed a 1031 exchange, however, all of the properties we purchased are currently listed in our own names.

He wanted to do a 1031 Exchange.... 

When set up this way the members of the LLC or LP cannot do their own exchange because they do not own real estate. 

I can get a lot more precise by pricing it all out, but that is going the opposite direction of making it easier.

I assume it's because he doesn't want me to see what number he agreed to with the owner but I also believe that without a purchase price the contract he sent me is not valid which makes the assignment void and therefore doesn't give me any right to buy the property.In my understanding a contract has to clearly state what's being exchanged or traded for what. 

My fiancé and I live in NYC and know we do not want to raise kids here. We have 2-3 places elsewhere in the country we want to raise kids where we also have trusted friends/family who are renters. Idea is this:

We ...

You're doing your first like it was your 100th exchange! 

Many of our clients on this side of the business (the side I manage is helping non-accredited clients invest in direct real estate), are clients who have sold their direct real estate holdings and are doing a 1031-exchange into a DST (type of syndication that is 1031-exchangeable). 

Jon,I normally try to lock in good tenants as long as possible, and in exchange for an extended term (2 years+), offer them to lock in their rent for that period.

Would love to chat and exchange info more if you're interested