Ive done a dozen 1031's and it can be a pain when you dont find something but it better to pay taxes then to make a bad buy. 

I agree with your assessment that San Diego is too expensive and I think looking in the Southeast is a good idea.

Then I went to the city (now this can be done online) and compared list price with assessments for all land in the subdivision - even developed land.

I have begun looking in Sacramento but since I am somewhat unfamiliar with that market, have found it difficult to accurately assess good vs bad properties.I guess I have a couple questions...  

You won't be able to get an accurate assessment on how much contamination there is, if any, without first pulling the tank.

It was not a fortune but paid for a pizza dinner out with my wife and a couple friends.Three fourty yard dumpsters and a few donations to the local church later I was finally able to assess the situation.

Let's try again - to assess your legal options and put together your plan of action.

Still in and still bank with USAA for the last dozen or so years.  

This was my fault as the wholesaler told me she assessed it at around 20K worth of work but I just had to see for myself SMH.  

I just ordered a dozen hard hats and will require them to wear them when working on my properties where there is a danger of falling snow/ice.