So the more tax you can defer over time the more income you'll make over time from the deferred tax.A 1031 does require the use of an unrelated 3rd party to the transaction called the qualified intermediary. 

1031 exchange with a qualified intermediary.Hubbard clause where it allows them to sell their home first before buying.Have a strong buyer lined up off market who is patient, then when they have found their new target property, sell to the buyer off market.

I’m not sure if this qualifies as “brokering” since I’m not handling anything on the legal side.

My job is within 30 minutes of the home and requires me to stay the night at the job up to 80% of a normal month...so, I will not be physically present at the home very often, which is why I’m considering an STVR.What qualifies as occupancy?

I would fire your lender for giving you a pre-qual letter to make offers without fully vetting you as a qualified buyer.

If you don't qualify for conventional for one reason or another (usually income) then a DSCR loan or Debt Service Coverage Ratio loan would be the next best thing. 

I finally am finishing school and will immediately be qualified to purchase my first home!

"Hey, I have the money down but can't qualify.

I know this is not helpful, but it is true.Assuming that your hot tub qualifies as a personal property, it will be depreciated differently from the building.

Unless you're "well healed" for qualifying and can tolerate the extensive scrutiny of two lenders, I'd wait.