They could have sensors that detected me blowing on them (ie, the appraiser mentally took note, consciously or otherwise, of the race of the "homeowner," and that tainted the results).

It really depends about being conscious with your time.

I mean, there college kids, maybe I am in a different college town but frugal and cost conscious are NOT words I would associate with the iphone carrying, designer brand wearing, starbucks drinking college kids I see. 

Should you discover this offer is competitive, you can always circle back at that time, but be conscious of any rate locks or potential adjustments that may occur if you delay on moving forward while shopping other lenders.

Re-reading my post it does look a bit stream of consciousness inspired so my apologies. 

It is good to be conscious of the market and if I were you I would make sure that you have healthy cash reserves to cover all of the RE projects you have going on before you go invest in another property.

We are leaning towards LVP but we are also trying to be budget conscious.

- Any recommendations for property managers that are quality and cost conscious? 

I think this comes down to the consciousness side of things.

I am consciously incompetent (meaning I know I do not know) regarding this topic.