I understand that a majority of them carry a 5 year balloon AND an amortization period (usually 30 years).

I usually recommend that out of state investors do not take on large projects until they are confident with their teams, but I have plenty of CA clients who have purchased moderately distressed homes and put a $15k remodel in.

There is usually a clause that says you are not relying on any oral representations of seller. 

I ended up replacing that sidewalk anyway due to municipality's threat of legal action; you lose in court and have court costs on top of the cost of the concrete work.This sort of thing is one of those real world expenses that the usual analysis tools fail to account for.

Biggerpockets is usually my first stop to see if anyone has first hand experience with what I am doing.

Usually double what you expect it to be is what ends up happening. 

Along with that notice they are usually sent a text or e-mail reminder to pay, without all the legal jargon involved.As for softening the blow, why wouldn't you?

Are DST properties usually priced 10 - 15% higher than comparable Non 1031 properties ? 

As a buyer for many years - I have and many investors have had this problem - finding cash buyers, as you know when you do assignments it is difficult to depend on the so called "cash buyer", they talk a good story, but usually can't perform.About 18 years ago I discovered a great way to assign, flip or recycle real estate for all cash, in as is condition with settlement within 6-7 weeks from the day I sign the contract.

Well, I usually never say NEVER, but I’m pretty sure that’s NEVER gonna happen.