Right now real estate is the popular asset, along with high tech growth equities, so everyone is trying to win the popularity contest.

@Noah P Bonds these types of loans were really popular before the housing crises occurred.  

Maybe it's more popular in my area. 

@Henry Clark .50 BMG is a popular round for target enthusiasts.

Those are very popular with investors, so prepare for multiple-offers.

But that is not a requirement.However, if you reduce your mortgage by purchasing less than you sold you will pay tax on the difference.Your idea of selling, doing a 1031, and after the 1031 refinancing the new property is a very popular strategy that lets you get the full tax deferral of a 1031. 

Two common complaints among those who have these custodial accounts are:The fee schedules are fairly comprehensive and fees add up quickly for higher value accounts or those with transaction-heavy real estate investments.It is inconvenient to have to make requests to the custodian when a transaction needs to be processed and the wait times can negatively affect the acquisition or management of investments.Adding an LLC to the self-directed IRA is a popular strategy to alleviate both complaints.

In my research it appears that the Dallas area may be for popular and prices are a bit higher but the rents appear to be average. 

Currently, I'm mixing in:- Market Updates- Equity Checkups (Annual)- "I thought about you" texts- Popular "around town" things to do updates- Phone CallsI haven't gotten into the "mailers" thing as of yet, but I'm likely going to do those for a couple of holidays or if I hear someone is sick, pregnant, etc. 

As a side note, we have about $900K of equity in our primary home which is in a very popular CO ski town (we are already short terming it when we travel).