@Olivia Melikian Finding the right agent to work with is important.

Ensure you collect a proper security deposit (typically one month's rent in Florida) to cover potential damages.Your plan to increase rent next year makes sense given rising costs (taxes, insurance, and maintenance).

., 3rd party companies4) Mix of the above

I would check the events page in your area for meet-ups on BP, I would check for local meet-ups in meetup.com, and I would get coffee with as many investors on this site that are in your area as you can to get the ability to showcase what you are willing to bring to the table for them. 

I am about to settle on an established rent-by-the-room that is within the same few blocks. 

Please let me know your thoughts and please poke holes in this idea!

I have got the security deposit as well .Please see your post… It says nothing about being rented and asked if you should take down the listing. 

All the best to you during your last semester.Househacking is one of the most common routes for new investors in NY.For best returns, I'd recommend focusing on South and Southeast Queens, Central and Southeast Brooklyn, and the Bronx.There are parts of the suburbs (Westchester and Long Island) that have househack opportunities but the property taxes are higher and the commute time to NYC is longer.Abel

Also- pro tip: The people in your market who are killing it won't ask you for compensation.

Quote from @John McPherson: Looking for tips on the best way to sell my Rented Homes in 1 transaction .