However, I don't find the long vacancy particularly enjoyable, and I'm hoping to gain some insight and grow from the experience.Has anyone else experienced this, and what did you do to avoid it?

I could have put less down on the primaries but I put down 20% to avoid PMI.

Not sure if you use a PM, but my software tracks the policies and lets me know automatically if there is a lapse in the renters policy, so that we can try and avoid this type of scenario.

You can put a mortgage into a "trust: without triggering a due on sale but again contacting your bank/lender is the best route to avoid any issues.Some banks/lenders or servicing companies change guidelines and even a trust may require other paperwork but the attorney usually facilitates that to be safe.  

How can you avoid networking with successfull folks in your own zips?

highlight_post=6803139&page=1#simplified-forums__discussion__replies-containerI have no reason to alert you of this danger other than honestly trying to help you avoid the trap that the rest of us fell into.FOR YOUR OWN SAKE, DO NOT BELIEVE ANYTHING MARCO OR NORADA TELLS YOU UNLESS YOU SEE IT IN WRITING AND HAVE IT VERIFIED BY YOUR LAWYER. 

They can help you navigate the market and avoid common pitfalls.If you’re serious about taking the plunge, start analyzing properties in both Boston and Chicago markets to understand local trends.

Working with Real Estate ProfessionalsLocal Real Estate Agent: Choose an agent experienced in student housing.Property Management Services: Consider hiring a property manager if you’re not local.Inspection and Appraisal: Conduct thorough due diligence to avoid costly repairs.6.

Are there issues that you think you should avoid regardless of potential for discount? 

By making partial dispositions, you can also avoid subsequent recapture on these items when you go to sell.