However, looking at it from a micro perspective in certain areas it was substantial.

I have portfolio 20 rented single family homes to finance ($3m value, need 1.7m... 0.2 Refininace +1.5 cash out) that I own since 2-3 years.I am perfect borrower (high personal and business credit score, stable rents, low LTV etc etc)Traditional local bank quotes 2% costs (appraisal , title , underwriting etc), 10 years ballon and 6.3% interest rate.Is there anything substantially better out there?

Needed somewhat substantial renovation, thus we have performed - numbers made a perfect sense, so we pulled the trigger.What was the outcome?

No substantial cash flowNo substantial value  gain at purchasing 

If it can be converted to student housing, and therefore project a substantial increase to a potential buyer's NOI, then you may be able to capture some of that premium in this market. 

You can charge for all the non emotional support animals even if she can substantiate a chicken is an ESA. 

It says you're borrowing $180k, which is substantially more than the purchase price.

I don't think these two factors would have any influence on my decision to purchase unless there was a current termite infestation or previous damage beyond the scope of the repairs I wanted to do. 

I greatly appreciate the feedback on whether I should cater to sellers and nurture them to sell to me directly through my social media branding or if I should I aim to inspire and share content about my life as a real estate investor and influence others to also buy real estate? 

This has shifted the market substantially.  10 years ago the vast majority of students would sign leases in Sept and Oct for the following school year which started in Aug.