"Early termination" depends on the provisions of the PMA.

Depending how much you earn you can step up those savings by getting a side-hustle.

I see vacancy rates going up and rent going down in the next few years, along with depreciation.  

prices and rates are high and there is lots of competition for deals, both on and off market. 

I can't speak for others, but at OSU the values of rentals differ greatly depending on the street and proximity to other locations.  

Depending on the auction terms it could be that result plus the forfeiture of your deposit, or perhaps the trustee/auction company must elect one remedy vs. the other.

The rental has quite a bit but it's at a 2.875% rate that I wouldnt trade for this deal.

unless this property is unsalable on the open market or your selling it for far more than its worth this is a Pass full stop.. 4% is not even close to market rate for seller financing it should be 8 to 10%and if you need cash then you have factor that into their down payment.

I'm assuming this mostly depends on the quality of the GC and his communication skills etc. 

DC is one of the lowest cap rates in the country.If you have a long time horizon, and have patience, with the areas strong rent growth you can end up with more cash flow here than a high cap rate market.