New investor in Houston

[Robert Scholl]

Hello,
I recently introduced myself on the new member forum. I'm really glad to be here. But it's been information overload for me. I'm reading multiple books, listening to BP podcasts (amazing information there!), and reading through the forums. I think I have more questions now than when I first became interested.

This is directed towards Houston REI's.
1. How do I learn the overall market conditions in Houston? I know it's a seller's market in general, but area wise Houston is so big I don't even know where to start looking. Even if I limit myself to a 30" drive, there is so much real estate in different niches that it's mind boggling. Are there industry sources of local real estate news that we can access to gain insight into what the hot areas are or what might become hot? What areas might be better for rental properties over flipping, etc.?

2. How do I find a target neighborhood? Do I find an agent first, and if so, how? Is there a way to network with agents who are on BP specifically? I know in a seller's market, flipping becomes a little more difficult, so I just don't know what to focus my energy on learning about, holding, flipping, both....

3. Is the Houston REIA club, rich club.org a good group to get involved with?

4. To protect myself personally do I need to set up an LLC or similar before I do my first deal? Does a Real Estate attny set this up, or any attny can do this? Is it a good idea to read a textbook on Texas RE law and contract?

5. In setting up a company to begin are there any guidelines on naming that company? I've heard that some people set up separate LLC's for each property that is flipped, for example.

I think I have about 100 more off the top of my head; basically I'd like to find out how to get to know fellow investors in Houston and develop relationships. I'm very motivated to learn, but I am working full time for the foreseeable future, so I need to start small.

Thanks in advance!
Robert