I keep getting mixed messages, one saying I need to start an LLC and only after two years I can start thinking about loans, others say it's no problem and you can find out private lenders, however it would make it really hard to achieve a positive cash flow with the rates they would charge me.If anyone can provide some guidance and point me in a direction where I could get a bit more educated that would be great.

If the plan is to hold for ten years, but the debt matures in three, you have to find a way to get comfortable that a take-out will be achievable prior to maturity. 

I’m hoping that I can use those skills to optimize my bottom line.

In terms of the apps, it really depends on what you're looking to achieve with the app.

Those who fought their way through competitive biddings in super achieving school districts found their investment doubled in 10 years.

When people make the irrational choice of buying a home with an economic cost, that does not change the home into a liability, it means they made a sub optimal investing choice, like buying Lehman Bros in '07. 

Those people should be like minded, and be able to help you and your strategy achieve your goal.

@Cayman Rigdon I would further verify the location and the achievable market rent, talk to at least 2 reliable property managers.  

Timeline to achieve this is 10 to 15 years,  conservatively.

This will defer all of the tax liabilities.Parts of the tax code can be combined to achieve this, but 1031 is the simplest, most straightforward, and can be conducted by any investor (read: accredited status not required.)