I’ve also been looking into creating a website and going the SEO route but I know this takes time to optimize.

Not sure why, maybe they want to create the appearance that they have lots of listings to offer, maybe they have good SEO, whatever.

But In theory, leverage will optimize returns. 

It is likely you will be unable to find a property in the optimal location, I would not hesitate to consider investing in a property in close proximity but not directly near the medical school so you can get a property before you no longer have verified income for a traditional loan. 

After that, investors can use advanced strategies such as optimally structuring loan terms such as prepayment penalties, adjustable rate options, and borrowing entities to tailor DSCR loans to their specific investing needs.DSCR loans are typically the best option for investors ready to scale, and first-time investors are usually better suited for conventional financing, which typically have slightly lower rates.

I'm a #s guy too, so I definitely understand where you're coming from, but there's also a point where it's more beneficial to just get started with a decent property, than to run more analyses trying to find the "best" or "most optimal" property.

If you are trying to build credit you should keep your card at under 30%, 10% is optimal.

Vertical builds can optimize existing zoning.  

You have to make your own decisions but paying down a mortgage while borrowing to buy furniture is usually not optimal.  

I don't see that, unless to argue that I could put financing on RE at less than 7% to optimize return.