Taking a deposit to secure the deal can be a good option, as it shows the buyer is serious and committed while also giving you the time needed for the 90-day rule to clear.

There are houses that can be lived in and fixed up, or turned into multi-unit spaces (such as terraced houses with converted 'stables' at the back) for living in and earning income at the same time.

Anything you find on market is going to be overpriced, and you're wasting a lot of time analyzing a lot of properties. 

For example, if the job takes 20 hours at $25/hour, you’re looking at around $800 total.Expect quotes to be significantly higher, but use your formula to negotiate.

As far as a DST goes for replacement property, it can be a great potential solution for those who are no longer interested in the traditional responsibilites of ownership any longer or who may be having a difficult time finding adequate replacement property or properties. 

Of course it isn't going to work for everyone...then again, I also have many friends with degree's that cost them 6 digits that cannot get a job in their field!

You should factor in time value of money and opportunity cost.  

PMs and realtors want to use people they know that have been in the business and do a good job for them.

Quote from @Julian Thomas: Quote from @Wale Lawal: @Julian ThomasYou're in an amazing position by thinking about real estate this early, and with a full-ride scholarship, college is a no-brainer—it gives you time to learn, network, and build capital without debt.

That will, portfolio-wide, minimize your perceived tenant flight risk, and over time you'll get to an even better cash flow spot.