Areas to invest in for Greater Austin for Long term growth (7-10 years)

[Raj Janakarajan]

Hello, I made some investments in Austin 2 years back in East Austin and Harker Heights.  They are doing well in terms of rent growth and appreciation so far.   I am thinking of starting again to invest in greater austin.  I would like to get your inputs on areas to focus on in great austin area.  I primarily do duplex / quads, okay with zero cash flow but not negative and looking for long term growth areas.

Prices of duplex are not that much different between Round Rock (closer to Austin) and San Marcos/New Braunfels area (away from Austin) discounting for age of units.  $440k-$470k seems to be going rate for 2/3 bedroom duplexes in these areas.  Since pricing is almost the same, I am not sure which markets to pick to invest in for long term growth.  Do we think Round rock (closer to Austin areas) are better bet than further away markets like San Marcos, New Braunfels etc.  How do you think about this?  Please share.

Raj