If rooms are unavailable this early in the booking cycle, I believe you chose a poor location.  

Working with a knowledgeable 1031 exchange advisor or real estate professional who understands market cycles can be key to timing your transactions effectively and avoiding the pressure to buy at a peak.

I mean it stands to reason it will not get worse, as these interest rate cycles tend to take a long time, and some places already advertising under 5 something rates.   

The market cycle caught up with them.

On the other hand, a 24-year history with an 18% net IRR that includes some losses may indicate a more seasoned sponsor who has navigated multiple market cycles and learned valuable lessons along the way.Regarding internally managed operations, like property management (PM) and construction management, scale plays a crucial role.

Ive been paying out of my ears on interest on those things which is why I started to obsess over my mortgage payments as well, bc i could see myself getting into the same cycle. 

I'd sidekick with someone who has been at this for a while and through a few cycles. 

A common issue is supply and demand effected by population changes, construction, economic issues, the job market and location.Personally I haven't seen vacancy issues at this time,  but I have gone through cycles of vacancy issues.

Vicious cycle of learning.  

Not to knock schooling, I have an advanced degree myself, but I recognize that no one would work for me that I would want running my show.There is a lot showing in your frustration, I feel for you, but it's a challenging time in the industry and without experience and the advantage of having been through a few down cycles, you may just need to read about the down side of real estate to get to the next level.