I've learned a lot in the process and my network has grown tremendously. 

Is there any way to affect the appraisal process, or is this a "luck of the draw" type scenario. 

If you really don't want to live in the house hack, I think that it's more likely that you could take ownership of a small multi-family property by securing owner financing and avoiding the FHA loan process completely.

Both my rentals are buy and holds, currently vacant and in process of finding tenants.I'm researching what are the things we can do while saving money for the next purchase apart from listening to Brandon Turner :) Appreciate your inputs.Thanks!

Talk to an attorney, but I wouldn't just because the process involves risk if the deal falls through.

I'm trying to stay ahead of the process by looking for a reputable and trusted home inspector now.

If you're interested just google it and there's tons of info out there on the process. 

Within the first 3 years, I’d like to repeat this process, possibly with larger dollar amounts or a larger group of investors.

This process takes time and money. 

But those are for a completely different strategic reason which the 1031 process is still an integral part of their strategy.