What are the foundational pieces for achieving this in your opinion?

A kitchen remodel (flooring, cabinets, counters, appliances, backsplash) at a single family can run you 15-20k, and needs to be done about every 15 years to keep achieving top rents.

You have found the right place for a plethora of information on REI.Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/search/usersI hope BP helps you achieve your goals!

If you feel like you're units are inline with them (finish level, sq ft. etc) then you should be able to achieve those rental rates or need to adjust accordingly.  

Whatever you do don't quit, stay a student and you will achieve your goals.

I do multifamily financing for a living and in Southern California we're usually limited by debt service so we rarely achieve the max LTV.

What minimum percent down is reasonable to achieve and still obtain a competitive rate (let’s say 4.5% or so right now)?

You don't have to spend a lot to achieve a timeless look.

There are always trends to achieve this, the real GDP will be increased within 5 years, as I read in many international websites Is the currency stable?

Sounds like you need to find out what it is you are looking to achieve.