Any contract or suggestion they give seems overpriced, whereas contracts/work I've found seems to be much more reasonable. 

overbuilt. just google Austin and over delivered or overbuilt and you'll find your answer. strong market, expensive land, expensive to build. 

Can I post an email address or phone number# 

I found them on line and wondering how was your experience if you ussed them.response would be appreciated If you have questions about to process or what is required please feel free to reach out.

If you have a high 7 rate then it might be beneficial in the long run to pay it down if you don't want to put it in a 4% savings account or CD.  

If necessary to go through city or not..

I'd also worry about the showings and if someone steals something from the tenants (or the tenants claim something is missing).Focus on getting the most you can for the property.

In person is better than over the phone if possible, as I have been told by annoyed or lazy clerks "NO STR allowed" as that was the easy button to get me off the phone, or if they are anti STR. 

How do I access a portion of that equity to fund the purchase of 1-2 more MFR properties in more affordable markets like OH, IN, MI, PA, TN, or AL?

Looking to find duplex or something along those lines to reside in and then eventually move upward.