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

I also have a hard money loan that has had a "freeze" on payments that were supposed to start a year ago. 

Is it a bad idea to start investing if I don't live in the country.

Piece of advice - when I started I wish I would have focused on my multifamily niche/expertise from day one vs trying to be the agent for everyone (flippers, STR buyers, land, etc). 

Ah yes, I own property in Tulsa but actually also have a real estate automation company with nationwide coverage - I started adding markets to the list to illustrate the range of areas we cover but should definitely add Tulsa to the list as well!

I started listening to the BiggerPockets podcast in late 2023 and have since heard every episode. 

We know how challenging it is to navigate real estate, either starting out or as an experienced investor, especially when it comes to creative finance.

BiggerPockets is full of resources designed to help you along your journey, whether you are just getting started or a seasoned investor.

Don't want to pay tax on selling the rentals I unfortunately don't think they actually want to utilize the 121 to sell their existing primary and then potentially buy another one-it sounds like the goal is to ultimately continue owing that initial home which I think makes this whole plan 5x more likely to be torn apart under audit because they're trying to end up with the same property they started with.  

It's a great time to get started.