The area has appreciated very well over the past couple of years and we bought cheaper than we probably should have been able to, again through timing and where the builder was at on things- some of their other projects that were like ours in the same neighborhood were purchased a month later for $25,000 more than what we paid.

I second @John Underwood and @Bruce Woodruffs comments.Get it up, make it a little cheaper and see how it goes.

It's cheaper on the front end but very expensive on the back end. 

Is there strong demand for rentals and is it potentially possible to rent a room for 1500-2000 depending on the location (slightly cheaper than a studio from what I've been seeing which is how I priced my rooms in AZ)?

Or, once you finish your exchange you can immediately do a cash out refi, which is not a taxable event and you can use that for any purpose you want.

One thing you may want to consider is some sort of umbrella insurance - that might be a cheaper option, I'd price out bother.

I believe there are MUCH cheaper courses out there that provide better learning material at a higher value for whoever is interested in real estate investing.

Sounds like you have thought out a lot of this, but maybe also hold a competition with a cash prize at your closest architectural and design school.Can you build it cheaper than someone like this?  

My metro STR is much cheaper(180-280 nightly) and in the “burbs” which tends to be working class clientele, which is okay.

.✅ Investors - Keep detailed records of ALL rental property expenses to reduce your taxable income - helping your CPA spot additional tax saving opportunities.Imperative to use a CPA who is well versed in Real Estate tax code.My CPA is just that - DM me to get his contact information....