Maybe there is a finished basement or ADU that you can rent out and you get to rent out your old primary residence.

They don't have a high end look, but they will work well for a long time.My only caution on switching hardware is to be cautious of using black finishes. 

5 years is a long time and once you are finished with your grad school and have a job, you can buy another place. 

But, I really need to nail down a plan the is attainable and executable.

Putting together a solid team will reduce risks and expedite your investing process.Establish Specific Goals: Whether your goal is to increase your wealth through real estate, attain financial independence, or generate passive income, clearly define your investing objectives.

I am not pushing too hard  to sell right now , still finishing the house I am moving to .

You can sand it , you can stain it , finishes in all colors .

Furthermore, understanding the resident characteristics allows me to measure the target market and modify my investment strategy accordingly.Inspection ChecklistSituations vary from one property to the next, but here is an on-site inspection checklist to get you started:Interior Units:Inspect vacant units, including one of each finish out type (Classic, Reno, etc.).Check all down units.Inspect one unit from each unit mix.Exteriors:Landscape:Look for overgrown bushes.Identify trees that need trimming (no branches hanging over the roof).Take pictures of the following:Curb appeal on all sides facing the street.Landscape around the office and amenities.Overgrown bushes or trees.Any dead landscape.Areas that may need sod or mulch.Assess drainage:Ensure water flows away from building foundations.Check slope, gutters, downspouts, surface drains, French drains, etc.Exterior Walls:Determine the existing material (wood, vinyl, Hardie, brick, stone).Assess the condition of the walls.Note if painting is required.Take pictures of each building, including building number, each elevation (clockwise), and any breezeways or niches.Windows:Evaluate the condition of existing windows.Consider whether solar screens should be installed.Roof:Identify the type of roof.Assess its condition and age.Parking Lot:Check for potholes.Assess the need for restriping.Note whether the parking lot is concrete or asphalt.Evaluate drainage issues.Walkway:Look for tripping hazards.Assess drainage issues.Foundation/Gutters:Inspect for cracks in the brick.Check for separation in corners from fascia and trim boards.Evaluate drainage and identify poor drainage areas.Amenities:Identify possible improvements.Consider adjustments or additions that can enhance amenities.Talk to the Staff:Maintenance: Inquire about the physical condition.Office: Discuss current residents, delinquency, and potential changes to add value.Assess whether rents are too high or too low.Confirm rents and what is included/not included.Confirm other sources of income and associated charges.Confirm occupancy, pre-release, and vacancy numbers.Note: Maintain professionalism and avoid insulting the owner or broker, regardless of the property's condition.Keep in mind that investing in real estate is like solving a puzzle—you need all the pieces to see the big picture.

You need to be thinking about the finished height before you lay the underground utilities!

The hot rehab market is allowing teams to do quick and partially finished job and jump to the next job.