If this is something you want to do, make sure you go 100%, if not, then the success rate is very low for anyone looking to get started, but this is true for any business you'd like to start.

I have seen some with short programs with low/affordable tuition. 

Your capex and maintenance is likely low. 550 renters are gonna be tough on a property

I was thinking of trying to use the 1031's to purchase 1 or 2 properties out right, or the other idea i was recommended by another investor since i am still young was to purchase the properties w/ 15yr mortgages since they still have very low interest rates vs 30yr loans and purchase a few properties that still cash flow with the 15yr loans with enough pay down with the 1031's.

By doing this you are creating a very low risk cash flow instrument. 

I am not too worried personally about the rain as none of my properties flooded during the 2015 flood, but there are a lot of low lying flood prone areas in Columbia.  

You haven't described a scenario that would qualify for one of the exceptions, so a "straight no" is the correct response.......Also, you know that FHA loans aren't the only low down payment options out there, right? 

It's not the most widespread way to sell a house, but there are tax advantages to those who would prefer them and don't need the money, there's contract for deed options for those purchasing low cost homes, there's people like myself who would like to purchase a property, rehab and sell it on seller financing...I think it's more accurate to say that there are newbies who hear about all these creative financing methods and think it's their way in when in most cases they are best reserved for more experienced investors.

Essentially their rent was SUPER low at 450/month. 

Is this a "housing project" for low income renters that may scare away some home buyers / renters and lower property values and rental income around it?