Also, there are other things regarding a gift transaction that need to be considered before pulling that trigger that could affect the long term tax attributes of the property.  

I've been told by a few mortgage brokers to just get the property in my name and then transfer it but I think that is a scenario I would like to avoid since I've read that it can trigger the "Due on sale clause".

Also listen to as many podcasts/read as many real estate books as you can get your hands on so you're ready to pull the trigger come graduation time.

Have the balls to pull the trigger and follow your dream.

The due on sale clause won’t be triggered thanks to the Garn St Germain act.

As you mentioned there is only so much reading you can do and at some point you’ve got to pull the trigger.

Seems to me that it is a problem for me since it will be my first (and hence small, 50K investment) which will trigger me having to pay my CPA next year extra $100 or so to file my taxes in GA (right?)

If I am not confident in my numbers on income and expenses for the property, I am not comfortable pulling the trigger on a closing.  

Sometimes, when I'm really stuck in the middle on deciding to pull the trigger, then I pick a number that will make the decision for me.

You're not transferring titles or anything that would trigger a complete reassessment to step up your basis.