So run the numbers and weight the trade offs. 

For me, at the beach today, wiring funds and e-signing on my phone.

All activity of the property is reported on the schedule E of your tax return.If that's the case then you and your LLC are interchangeable as far as the 1031 goes. 

I'm a lawyer who's moved into r/e full-time.

I'm looking to connect with some investors based out of Pittsfield MA, because my partners and I are looking to buy out there and would love to get in touch with some active investors out there to learn more about the market.It seems like smaller multifamily trades at great prices out there and I'd love to talk with some people about their experience and learn more about investing out there.Thanks very much!

Is this something that can be executed within a couple months? 

@E.

I work with many licensed folks who do just that, their message being basically "I can buy for this or list it for that" Even if you do not work the listing yourself, you should be able pass a listing to someone else, split commission and get paid legally.Now your task will be finding people who want or need to sell their property, triaging the best solution for each, make your offer and use the appropriate paper to get the job done.In this process, you'll come across those deals you can cherry pick for yourself once you determine your own buying strategy and holding criteria.Each step can be planned and executed according to your investment plan as @Amber Forkey suggested.Hope that helps

Once you have located the actual provision in the Declaration that allows them to approve/deny transfers of title (if there even is one), then I would suggest sending a threatening e-mail with all of the above points^ and if they don't budge then reach out to legal counsel to send a demand letter (should run you somewhere in the $300-$500 range). 

They'll also be able to paint out a picture for you on how to execute your goals and assist with a strategy (Maybe not family and friends, unless they have experience in the space).