I'm exploring options to purchase a new home as a primary residence within a 3 hour drive of Houston George Bush Intl Airport (IAH) with a USDA loan that I could turn into an Airbnb to rent out when I am not there because I spend a lot of time overseas.

If you’re looking for cash flow, Detroit is still one of the best markets out there.

You see a house on google street view, bid like there is a house there, and you bid your $50,000 minimum bid up to $100,000 for your $200,000 house. 

(As I navigate my service business, I've realized that there are more lucrative avenues available.

Is there a minimum balance required to avoid fees?

We will have to watch this space and see if there is a tangible benefit to be found for all affected people. 

Many others have enjoyed similar success there as well. 

Is there anything left if you give him half the equity and can only borrow 75% of the value? 

There are many options, now.

There not.