Austin, TX or Cape Coral/Lehigh Acres, FL - Where to invest?

[Sabuj Banerjee]

Hi All,

I recently sold an investment property in CA and am looking to do a 1031 in a landlord friendly state. My criteria is as follows:

1- Primary goal is appreciation over the next 5/6 years, cashflow positive preferred but cashflow neutral at a min.

2- Preferred portfolio - Duplex & SFH in TX or Duplex each in TX and FL.

3- Area of interest - I-35 corridor by Austin TX and Cape Coral/Lehigh Acres FL.

4- Focus is on new construction properties for obvious no immediate maintenance needs and Developer incentives on interest.

I know Austin is a no brainer but I would like to get your expert opinion on Cape Coral/Lehigh acres FL area. I have seen older articles on these areas but wanted to get a more recent opinion. 

My main concern in FL is the flood and storms. Is that a legit concern in Cape Coral (which is my preferred location over Lehigh Acres)? I feel that cash flow would be better in Lehigh vs. Cape BUT when it comes to appreciation, Cape would be better.

All advice and comments welcome.