I feel like it comes in a bit high though, so I prefer to adjust it down a bit to be conservative.

My personal take is that the banks won't call it due until they do, and I prefer to play by the rules, and abide by the contracts I sign.I also did not have the financial capacity to put 25% down on my first house-hack when I was getting started.

You can ask to see it before you put in an offer, which would definitely be preferable.

You mentioned some specific terms long term lease and such that would limit your seller Pool as many would prefer cash but not allI am a postcard guy more bang for the buck.

I would prefer to completely gut and redo the property the "right" way.

Make sure the property is properly marketed with the correct luxury realtor from the beginning of planning - your interior designer will need to be on top of the market's preferences.

Can anyone in the Houston, Tx area refer me to a knowledgeable real estate attorney, preferably someone familiar with closing a wrap-around mortgage? 

Is there such a person around, I would prefer a woman if possible. 

It seems clear that the quickest route to become a multifamily syndicator is to provide value to those who are already successful in that niche and becoming involved directly.

Likely, this is why you are interested in being and entrepreneur, and this also explains why they prefer to see you heading toward academia.Many students take a gap year; could you tee up your idea of technical school with that slant?