U-Haul published data on top locations for one-way relocations.

As a first time and out of state investor, my top priorities for this first investment were (1) a property that would be quick to rent (as I didn’t have other properties to offset extended vacancy rates), and (2) a very strong local PM team that RTR had extensive success with.

BUT the point is...do you think you or the agent will sell it for the highest price and provide higher net proceeds to your family member? 

That makes your bookkeeping easier, and it can also provide liability protection if you hold title in an LLC.

Looking to start a granite and counter top business and was wondering if anyone has done this?

Never built in Houston before so take my feedback with a grain of salt but I'd put money on it being impossible to build a duplex from scratch for $125 a foot (including everything from drawings, engineering, permit fees, general conditions, labor, material, landscaping).Out here in AZ the builder cost is going to be $200 a foot at best, but add 20% on top of that for the client cost.

As for starting a new job, I would advise you to focus, focus, focus on the job that provides you the opportunity to invest. 

For the top tier area like Palo Alto where cap rate is 4.0%, LTV can only be limited to 40%~45%.

I totally get where you’re coming from—staying on top of market trends is crucial, especially when working with profit-focused investors.

When you move forward, they should provide proof and name you additional insured.