I know that is a short window in time.I will run the numbers again with a 10% vacancy rate, since there is obviously increased supply in Norman that isn't going to decrease for some time.I do currently manage my house-hacked duplex, and will manage this Norman property, assuming I close the deal.

In my business, I'm always looking for ways to decrease headaches.

Regarding the rent, I just used the average rent for 2 bedrooms in KC (from rentcafe) and decreased it by $50.

For every 1% interest rate increase the affordability will decrease by 10% until few can afford these $8000 monthly payment per mortgage.

Of course I want to decrease my tax liability, but I also want to be able to show the banks how much positive cash flow I'm earning in order to help me qualify for next years investment properties...When reviewing tax returns for income to determine eligibility for a loan, do you look at gross rental income or net?

Temporary fix the problem and look for a long term solution.  

So in other words, all I'd be doing is locking more of my own money that I can't use into in the house, while subsequently decreasing my cash flow to get any of it back.

Can you decrease them at all? 

Did your income decrease?

Decreased inventory is a huge factor also.