As it relates to lease end dates I've seen two things work here. 1) You can stagger end dates as mentioned above or 2) you can optimize for summer - this works better for us in areas where you see students or families with school age children moving to align with the summmer months.Separately, this is a great argument against month-to-month leases.  

We look at things like safety, unemployment, schools.

I know the university, the med school, and the hospital are there, so surely an MTR would work well.

Starting now, even while juggling school and your internship, will give you a huge head start.

Also, the vacancy rate was understated.  

Especially if you can refi down the road into a lower rate.

Renting out a room is a great way to get started, and I wouldn't get too settled into the "going rate" use that almost as a floor. 

We are also seeing an increase due to the lower interest rate debt out there in a higher interest rate environment. 

Best bet is to try local and credit unions, possibly may have some programs for better rates.

The Taxable Value is uncapped and equated to the SEV upon a sale or other transfer of property ownership, with limited exceptions.Homestead versus Non-Homestead Millage RatesCounties & cities in Michigan are allowed to set their own millage rates, with one restriction – a primary residence (Homestead) is exempt from up to 18 mills of school taxes on their Homestead property.