If you have your buyer-broker agreement and it was a full-service agreement, read through it and if they didn't perform, then contact your state's real estate board to see if you can still file a complaint, as there may be a time limit.

High DTI makes it difficult to refinance.

I highly recommend doing as much research as you can. 

I would highly recommend getting proper advice from a CPA. 

Need to identify apartments in high demand locations where on a per bedroom basis its below market pricing.

I am concern with the high interest rates but even with those I managed to cash flow which is what I am looking for. 

Rents are high compared to property values so you can get good rent flow. 

My opinion for those that live in a high cost of living market is to continue living / renting in that market and invest in a different market that is affordable and provides both cash-flow and appreciation potential.The reason to stay in the HCOL market is because you will be paid(hopefully) a nice large salary.You can take this salary to then 'easily' invest in other markets.NYC is tenant friendly which can be a con for investors.Furthermore, NYC has appreciated historically.

Although the temp is supposed to be 103 to 105 for the highs.  

If you want to get an idea of all that is happening in our market I would highly recommend subscribing to the Triangle Business Journal.