I think this is just way too complicated.  

At this point, we are thinking we need to put the titles back in only the original persons name before the tax years end to avoid these gift taxes.We own properties in the following states: MN, TX, UT and our primary is in CA.Appreciate any advise, I do realize the question in complicated.

One may be able to rely on the registration exemption for private offerings, but legal complications loom on the horizon for the middleman unaware or unwilling to accept current legal opinion in this area.

You getting the deed and trying to sell it may cause complications to the transaction with mortgage servicer and investor of the note. 

Should I use a second service like Venmo for these initial payments (seems too complicated and there seem to be issues with Venmo http://time.com/money/4036511/venmo-more-check-than-cash/).  

Due to complications with the paperwork, we were not able to close before I had to fly back to Dubai.

They're neither complicated or expensive but they do have some requirements that preclude it in this case.

Your strategy seems quite judicious and responsible, though small investors with single digit properties ( and aspiring big though) don't have the option of incredible diversification in different asset class and instruments.

I also intend to finance the majority of the properties I purchase and have heard that having properties in the name of an LLC or S-Corp could complicate matters.I want to be sure to protect my personal assets.  

If this sounds complicated, it really isn't.