Michael Blank is a super nice guy, so I wouldn't want to take anything away from him, but tagging along might be a temporary and easy solution. 

It's temporary. 

Two key calculations to prove this out:  ROI = Net Profit / Total Investment * 100 ROE (return on equity) = net income/equityBorrowing will decrease the cash you put up & increase your return relative to the cash out.  

My property manager advised due to decreased university enrollment these homes are slow to rent over the last few years.  

Friend may offer temporary housing at a hotel or another empty rental. 

When it says they generally pay 30% of their income, is that just more of an average, meaning listing it for lower would significantly decrease days on market?

This indicates a strong market demand and a promising opportunity for investors.Days on the Market (DOM)Reduced Sale Time: The average sale duration has decreased from 86 days to 67 days year-over-year.

Stacy, Be encouraged, you're in a temporary set-back on a worthy road to wealth-building & financial freedom.

You acquire more capital in your position by (1) decreasing expenses, (if possible) and/or (2) increasing income.  

If your advisor uses Monarch Money you can grant them temporary visibility and organizing privileges which can be helpful as well.