Also checked area and it's 6mins from university. 

I'm a University of Maryland student studying business and about to go into my senior year.

So, unless this was an OLD contract from prior to the NAR settlement it is very likely an exclusive buyer agency agreement. do you live in a special universe where realtors do what they say?

This will be my first foray into the universe of admitting pets so all feedback is welcome.I feel like as STRs get more and more competitive, being pet friendly seems to be a competitive advantage in some markets

Lenders are almost universal in their requirement that a borrower has "skin in the game".

Here are five important things to consider when making your decision:Certifications & Licenses: Hire a firm with AMO accreditation and CPM professionals to ensure best practices and ethical management.Local Experience: National firms aren’t always better.

What you are asking is the same as this classic rom-com reference:"Can you ever think of a universe where we would be together?""

The prices went up so much and can varies so drastically from one property to another that is really hard to find a universal rule of thumb. 

Cedar Rapids has the advantage of being a short commute away from Iowa City, which is where the University of Iowa is located.

Monthly payment comes to $917,  plus another $350 for taxes and insurance so ~$1280/month due to the seller.Using a private money lender to fund the deal, borrowing ~$130,000 @ 10% interest rate, interest only, principal + interest paid as a balloon after completion  or 12 months.House is a 3br/1ba 950sqft. near a university.