For connecting with local resources like mortgage brokers, investors, and agents, the Austin Real Estate Investors Association (REIA) is a great starting point.

Consider the Local Tenant Pool & Seasonal Demand•Gainesville is a college town, so student tenants might be a big part of the rental market.

BTW: most owners that have hired a PMC, don't want to speak with you, much less meet with you in person to hear a hyped-up sales pitch.Also, you want to do rental arbitrage - so, you will need to be properly licensed to manage properties you do not own as required by your state & local laws.- why would an owner want to do business with someone NOT properly licensed?

I'm a local real estate agent and would love to help you out on making this deal work.

However, looks like there is a harsh line as far as what locals can afford and if you go over that, vacancy is high.Watertown, NY- I’ve seen many great multi-family properties in the low to mid 100s.

As you're just starting out in Austin, focus on learning the local market, particularly areas with good rental demand and lower entry prices.

Zero in 2024 in Huntsville - which is precisely why we bought zero LTRs in 2024 locally (bought one out of state, and bought a local flip property and one small local commercial property - slowest year since I started REI in 2017). 

I am currently working for a local on your lot builder.

Quote from @Ray Joseph: If you attend a local meetup, I'm sure you'll find investors that operate in other cities or states.And you have thousands of out-of-state investors to mingle with right here!

Consult a CPA or real estate attorney to understand tax implications, build a reserve fund for unexpected costs, and research local regulations to ensure a smooth and profitable transition into rental property ownership.Good luck!