That roof you think will hold for 5-10 more years doesn't always comply with your optimism.4) I know from reading the forums that MOST investors that are using this strategy are cash poor. 

You can’t just evict because you feel like it but you also can’t just squat or not pay rent around here… so that’s why I like it here… but if your state is more pro tenant I would proceed with some caution and some optimism. could be a good deal… but is there another deal coming up, without tenants ???

In some areas the cities have web portals where you can obtain the info, but that doesn't seem to be the case for Greenville, NC.

I am seeing strong pros and cons for both scenarios and would love thoughts on what might be the optimal use of capital in this scenario.

You can schedule the timing of the payments and possibly annual lump sum payments to spread the income over multiple years and optimize their tax profile.3) Find a new partner and have them buy out your current partner before doing the 10314) Do the 1031 and then bring in a new partner to buy out your current partner.The real question is what does your current partner want from this exit, then build a solution that meets their needs.

You'll likely start gaining traction in 1 area more than the other, and then you can choose to optimize one way if you wish

The deals are optimized for risk mitigation as well having a recession proof strategy.

I took a quick peek at your web site and noticed you do both on market and off market real estate, and you've coached investors to help them build their business. 

I recognize from reading this forum that that isn’t an optimal approach, but I can’t articulate to him and the other exactly WHY or spell out the path I recommend for scaling.

There are plenty of mortgage calculators for free on the web.