The first house is the easiest. 

So same thing as an agent pick a technique and stick to it.Myself personally when I started as an agent I did not do follow up like I should have but what i did do was become a CLOSESR  If i got in front of them my success rate was very high so thats where I put my energy and my moto was next..If I could not close them first meeting I moved on the next. 

Can't get housing?

Save the cash unless you think a quick spruce-up (paint, minor fixes) could push the short-term rental rate higher.

Have helped multiple clients maximize their house hacking properties this year as well. 

Houses in your most avg suburbs of Houston don't cost $500k.

This house is in a great area that is growing and has experienced solid appreciation.

Getting blinds for house 1 pick up blinds for house 2 /3 while you there.3.

I also house hack and rent rooms.

You may be able to get into a reasonably priced house hack in these markets and benefit from some nice appreciation.