Defining a buy box

[Shivam Patel]

Hey BP community!

I am an aspiring investor, and I'm based in a suburb of Houston, TX. I initially set out with the goal of house hacking a Multi-family property, I quickly came to learn that not only does my area not have many MFH, but the ones we do have are way out of my budget. I want to invest in TX so that I can learn hands on from my first investing experience, so I have to re-visit my buy box.

What I want to know - 

What did your buy box look like starting out?

What did you learn was important to have in your buy box vs what just fluff?

Aside from your typical items like budget and area, I am looking for something in a good school district, and a moderate size in terms of bed/bath room count, as well as area. Would this be a decent start?

Would love to hear what y'all have to say! Thanks in advance!