The level of fit and finish is not the same on all my builds ($93/ft2 is nicer, i.e. hardiplank siding, hardwood floors, 10ft ceilings, SS appliances, granite, etc). 

On a high level, it seems really attractive as I can get a loan with 3% downpayment and no PMI or use the LPMI program where the lender pays the MI (I know I qualify for the loan).

Dealing with move out, unit rehab between tenants, and prospective tenants is a huge time, energy, and cost drain.Higher utilities cost.

Any advice on getting numbers up to 1600 level appreciated.

Eventually I will build to a level of complete financial independence and expand into technology development in real estate and other areas.

One of the attractive things about real estate is the ability to put your own time/energy into it to increase dividends.

Many single family homes are bing converted and marketed for 300-600 (depending on the level of upgrades) per room which appeals to students just as much.I am an investor and agent in the area- would love to connect and discuss moreZach

That sounds like a great idea and as you live in it, you will be able to fix as you go.I live near the South LA area, so if you would like my opinion on the ARV with different levels of fixings, let me know.

I've never spent more than a hundred on just a domain, and now with the advent of new top level domains I probably never will.

I had the exact same situation and it was good on every level:  1)  Guaranteed payments with $200 above asking since it was a nine month lease (rather than 12)2)  Family only used part of the house because they were there temporarily3)  Fire and other insurance repairs almost always take longer than expected; my 9 month lease then went month to month and the people stayed 14 months at the premium rate.I should mention, though, that not all placement companies have the same policies, so make sure you know what you are getting into.A note on "bad" months to lease:  I have had two of my best tenants move in during February.