From what I have read, If I don't close of any of the 3, it would be a failed exchange and I would get taxed on the money sitting with the 1031 company, is this true?  

I have read in some discussion that no property manager wants to take on room rentals client. 

I came across the quickbook tool by reading some online articles.

I’ve listened to all the podcasts, read a lot of the books, but I’m a hands on person and would love to learn the ins and outs of analyzing deals, makIng offers, the whole process, or even just sit in and observe.

I've read Brandon Turner's post on the ultimate realtor's guide to working with investors and plan on joining my local REIA to hopefully find a flipper that I can help find deals for.

Something else to consider, I read about some people who use a RUBBS (resident utility bill back system).  

Any recommendations for books to read or sources of information?

Any sources you would reccomend to read up on commercial development, or just seek out a broker?  

Read the BP Ultimate Beginner's Guide, then as many books, forum posts, and podcasts as you can get your hands on.

I recently bought a book to read up on landlord tax laws, “NOLO’s Every Landlord’s Tax Deduction Guide”.