Andy W.I agree that property specs differ in general.In most cases however, properties will share similar make ups on a given street (and sometimes neighboring streets) more than they will vary.The similarities will give a great indication of whether the neighborhood has mostly ranch-style, two-story, multi-family, residential and commercial mix, or if the property is a loner, because the zoning use has changed.Over time online resources will give an updated reflection of any changes that has taken place.

We did a lot of the work ourselves this time because this was the first project we have done together and we were learning about each other's work habits, styles, ethic etc. 

Make a small Hotel style very small Kitchette in that room.  

Good comps are houses of exactly the same style, size and condition, in the same neighborhood (not just close), and with the same defects (busy street) or pluses. 

It seems to me that the trend is towards smaller and smaller fixtures, just more of them.    

My management style is way too nice, but has served us in some ways, but I have room to tighten for sure. 

3. anyone have experience operating a dorm style housing arrangement, like this?

Investors should not be using the same style cards as realtor.

There is the cutest Spanish style house that just came up for rent in my neighborhood. 

Here is realtors magazine 20 top US markets Check out the Midwest entries http://www.realtor.com/news/trends/hottest-housing-markets-june-2015/?