I wouldn't think too much about Mother Nature.

Consider mini‑splits at natural vacancy to cut utility load and raise rent justification; baseboards can stay until turnover.

Was it something financial, operational, or maybe just human nature showing up in your deal?

I never did like the concept of having to buy within a specific time period to do a 1031.We looked at various states for landlord favorability, cash flow, property taxes, natural disasters, livability, population inflow, etc.

People can't afford LA or Santa Clarita so naturally they would keep going.

I had already read his 500 page book, so naturally we talked about renting and tenants. 

Prohibited Transactions: The IRS considers certain transactions prohibited, either by the nature of the transaction itself or who the transaction is with (known as disqualified persons).

I really like the idea of creating a list of inquiries and will try to find a way to incorporate that.

HOWEVER, after half a century as a professional investor in both real estate and businesses every investment offering I’ve seen that is the first to incorporate “new” something is the WORST investment you can make.  

And don’t stress about finding the perfect mentor, just show up consistently and add value where you can, the right relationships form naturally.