In this case she does not need a 1031 (actually can't use one cause it's not investment real estate).  

After work, I have a routine that lets me come down off the ledge cause of my hours around people throughout the day. 

I show them and the woman was excited cause she thought she lost the ring .  

I'd like to build a portfolio of rentals that have cash flow and allow me to buy a small condo at Hidden Valley (in the mountains) for fun some day.I can never make local REI meetups cause they are usually on Mon and Tues and that doesn't work for me, and seems like kids sports get in the way other times. 

The problem you are describing could be caused by any one of dozens of things.

Foundation problems can also cause plumbing problems...so keep that in mind too.

I am concerned about the amount of wear-and-tear that this many people will cause this newly remodeled unit.I would love your thoughts / advice.

Things I have been looking for is population growth, rise in sales prices, days on market, rental prices, economic development that may be coming to that area or the perimeter of the area that could cause a higher than average appreciation.Anyone want to chime in on other indicators that they look for?

In a neighborhood with negatives that caused the decline it can be a race between the slow deterioration and the renovations. 

Cause in the end it's profitable for them, you're bringing them multiple deals a month, Not just one sale every so often.