I've had 2 issues with tenants not paying rent resulting in them leaving and yes they left a mess, but we cleaned it up, got it re-rented (for a lot more money as there are rent caps in place in that area) and moved on.My first rental was accidental-I bought it to live in and moved and converted it into a rental. 

We live in a college town and could rent it for $1200-$1500/month afterwards.

While you can’t completely control who applies to live in your properties, you most definitely can find areas that are popular with students, young professionals, families, etc. 4) just as important as finding the property, you need to have an exit strategy in mind for the property.

I have 1 tenant on S8 and they’ve been great besides the fact the home is dirty and they live like a hoarder. 

@William Hutchmaybe start with a live in flip a bit away from the cityi would not partner with multiple people on your very first one - that seems like a disaster waiting to happenhigh rates are just where the market is right now

If you are planning on living in the property as your primary, you can request to terminate the lease as you will be taking possession for owner occupy, but confirm with a local real estate attorney on the specific verbiage and process as it varies by state. 

Once I complete the 1031 process can I live in one of the units while the others are being rented or will I have to wait a while before I do that?

Its not clear from your post if in fact there is a tenant living in this basement area ? 

I got a hold of an agent early Sat morning for a listing that went live late Friday night. 

I failed to mention he doesn't have a job, he is solely living off this lump sum which I thought was fine considering all the great references I received.