I have done it multiple times and always suggest it as the best way to start.

That is a great suggestion. 

This is defined as 30 days or more, and you will easily find nurses, professors, students, and more than need a 1-3 month airbnb.Speaking of, you could rent the whole space mid-term - and I suggest through airbnb or VRBO but you don't have to use those.

Sounds like it makes sense for you to partner, I would suggest: spell out responsibilities very clearly, how you make decisions and most importantly: have a very clearly spelled out exit. 

It sounds like there are a lot of techniqualities to this I will be studying on. 

Out of your list, I suggest the Northern and Western cities you listed (Conroe, Montgomery, and Katy).

See if you can get a copy of The Millionnaire Real Estate Investor by Keller.The Slight Edge and Atomic Habits too.Awesome board with many smart people having own suggestions and ideas to grow wealth!!

But I've watched a lot of cases carefully & studied enough of the law now to know there are ways to fight it in court.

Brown, I obviously don't use other registered agents so @Nathan Gesner suggestion is pretty good. 

If you're targeting a specific market, I suggest connecting with local investors through meetups.