In the same situation as the OP actually, and looking for my first investment.

Adjusted for inflation and for sqftage (new homes tend to continually get bigger), affordability has changed by much less than most would think.None of this changes the fact pointed out by the OP that something will give - either interest rates, continued soaring inflation, near-term prices, or a decade of low/no price growth. 

For my next trick I can guess OPs wife's name.

But maybe the OP was 'asking for a friend'..... :-)

@Scott Mac and @Bruce Woodruff  did you see this is a 3 unit where the OP has a vacant unit. 

I also believe the OP likely did the best action to obtain value based on the current property.

The combination of business training with a tech background is and will be one of the most sought after skills for the foreseeable future.To the OP, unless you fall into the 0.01% of folks who can build an investment empire using zero money down, my advice would be to get your degree...you will be extremely glad you did.

Furthermore, OP never mentioned anything about Husband / Wife so we shouldn't assume anything."

Not implying anyone who has tried to help is insincere or has mal intent.What the OP wants is immediate relief from the anxiety of a situation that merits a thorough discussion with a qualified CA who will ask the right questions.

I don't know of "another way to do something similar".Properties held in LLC was not mentioned by OP, but not an issue in any of the methods mentioned and only needs owners of can easily quit claim out of the LLC if needed.Each of these methods include careful document preparation by attorneys conforming to requirement of the laws.