There is a ton to learn just reading through posts here and listening to the BP Podcasts.If you are really early on your journey and trying to identify what methods to use I recommend heading to the library and reading or at least skimming a few dozen of the recommended titles from the BP Podcasts.

My main question is, how do I identify the best NJ submarket to look for properties?

Including it must be considered a "like kind exchange" and that you must identify replacement property within 45 days, and you must close on that property within 180 days.As long as the exchange is done properly it can be deducted on your 2022 taxes even if the deal closes in 2023.

I'm concerned that the two professionals you hired to diagnose the problem couldn't immediately identify there was no gas service to the home. 

You've identified what you are good at AND enjoy (buying and selling) and that is HUGE! 

All you need do is to use drop down boxes to identify the items and call up the reports.If you are looking for individual rentals e.g. guest info etc., creating a spreadsheet will work along with the accounting system.  

Some turnkey companies sell the property to investors at the point where the rehab work is identified and quoted, but not yet completed.

In order to even be permitted to run credit reports, my PM company had to go through a physical site visit from a representative of the credit bureau to ensure we have physical (locking filing cabinets, etc), electronic (password protected computer lock screens, etc), and procedural (written policies) safeguards in place to prevent the release of SSNs and other personally identifiable information (PII).So the correct answer to your question is a hearty No, the PM cannot and should not share applicants' credit reports with you.Note: I have since followed up with the law firm that published the article linked above, and they acknowledged that some of this is still the subject of legal debate.

You have 45 days to identify up to 3 properties that you plan to purchase and apply the 1031 funds toward.

But you also have an additional 45 days after the closing of your sale to simply identify your potential replacements.