All Forum Posts by: Celine Crestin

 I am not sure how this poster's LTRs are going, but I own 2 in the area and have helped multiple investors buy and then lease their LTRs in the Buda/Kyle area as well - all are cash flowing. Feel free to message me (or text for faster response) if you have any questions or need assistance. :)

I assume it is a pier and beam foundation based on the year built? Your difficulty and cost will be based on many factors. Is the property a 1 or 2 story? If 2 and the bathroom is on the second floor, the plumber will need to access the other plumbing/water lines and this could involve accessing walls and ceilings in various areas depending on your layout. Are you within city limits and are building permits required? This is an additional cost/step. 

Your best bet is to consult with a few contractors to get some bids and go from there. 

This is my market and I live and work in 78610. I'd be happy to chat and help you run numbers and answer any questions you may have about. 

 Of course, happy to help!

 You'll get there! Don't be intimidated - we were ALL new once. :) I started with a more "simple" (mostly) cosmetic fix on my first one and did almost all the work myself. Since I have scaled to bigger projects and sub out all the work. You got this!

I used Window World of Austin on my last flip for a whole home replacement and they turned out great and were the most affordable option I found. You may also want to check Menards (online) - I ordered doors from them due to stock issues and pricing in our area on my last flip and they were good quality, excellent customer service and still more affordable despite shipping costs. Hope that helps! Share your flip when you're done; I love a good before & after! :)

Congrats on getting ready to take the leap into RE investing! I also do fix and flips and my advice is GO FOR IT!! You will learn by doing and IMO there is no better way. Embrace that you will have ups and downs and success is never guaranteed, but you can hedge your bets by doing thorough market research on sales data, appraisals, costs of repairs, materials, etc. I always draft conservative plans so that there is plenty of room for error and market changes. 

I do recommend partnering with an experienced flipper to help mentor you and/or a seasoned investor friendly agent who knows how to run the numbers to help guide you on your first deal so you make a smart purchase. 

My other tip to you is a "cheap" house does not always equal a great flip opportunity. There are many other factors involved besides initial purchase price that will determine if the home can be a profitable flip. 

Hope that helps and best of luck to you! 

Congrats on deciding to buy your first home! That's an exciting endeavor. :)

You are correct that prices have come down some in the greater Austin area over the past year. I definitely advise you begin working with an agent (potentially interviewing several to find the best fit for your goals/needs), as they should be able to guide you to the areas and type of property that makes the most sense for your goals. 

Condos are tricky in this area, as many have attractive price points, but exorbitant monthly fees - thereby rendering them unaffordable. Condos also have rules/regulations on how many units (if any) can be long term rented within the development and since that is a goal you have for the future, it's important to research that before purchasing. This is again and area a seasoned Realtor can assist with. Your Realtor can/should pull HOA docs for you - this is ALWAYS done once you're under contract to purchase, but many times after your option period has passed. However, you can request these ahead of time (and ideally before purchasing or at least getting the pertinent info needed before offering). Additionally, some condos are not able to be financed due to being non-warrantable.

If you have additional questions, I'm happy to help; Feel free to reach out directly.

 For MTRs I do not use air bnb. so no I have not. I feel like guests going through that platform do not expect to be screened as air bnb has processes and procedures in place to protect both your interests. Screenings would apply when using a realtor or self renting it out. :) Hope that helps!

I agree with what Ryan said. There is less demand for it currently and location is critical. Austin is a widespread area and not all areas are suited for MTR or STR.

Will the property work for you as a LTR? There is still a need for those currently.