Suggestions on my markets of choice? Texas/Indiana

[Joseph Beazley]

Hey everybody. I believe i have narrowed down my out of state markets of choice and would love to get your opinions and recommendations for starting my path. I live in Southern California and I am looking into single family or possibly small multi-family properties. Buy and hold and for some good cash flow of course. Indianapolis, Indiana really sticks out me based on:

-Low unemployment rates

-Diverse Job opportunities

-Higher rent to purchase price ratios

-Landlord friendly state

-Big name companies/employers 

I also like the idea of Texas. Now i am not sure exactly what city? El Paso, Houston, Austin? Any recommendations would be awesome. Based on research a few reasons i like the idea of Texas are:

-Population growth 

-Pretty good unemployment rate

-New job opportunities

-Price to rent ratios are pretty good in some cities

One question i have wondered about is how drastic can the insurance be on flood areas? Is it best to avoid those areas or just make sure the cost of insurance works with your numbers?

I am new to all of this and know these are probably very bland questions that are hard to answer but anything truly helps. I really would like to jump in a get my feet wet but just need a bit more guidance to get my over the top. If you have any experiences with any of these areas i would love to hear from you. Also any suggestions with Realtors, lenders and property managers you have enjoyed working with and possibly turnkey providers. Looking forward to any replies. Thank you.

[Peter M.]

Investing in Texas right now is tough because of the market and all the time because of taxes and insurance. I bought my first property from an underwater Californian who I believe didn't understand how high the taxes were here contrasted by the lower cost of living. I invest here because I live here and can control it better. Maybe when I make it big I will start investing in other places with better margins.