I am focused on building capital at the moment since it wouldn't be a primary residence for me, so I want to stay under $300K.

Stay tuned! 

If you’re thinking of branching out, cities like Austin or San Antonio are worth considering, but staying local has its perks too.

Everyone will tell you it’s great to get started early, or you can just move after a year, but in the current environment in our region the rent your property will generate after you move out will likely be less than your mortgage, if you are tied to the area and feel confident you want to stay in whatever property you buy for 3-5 years go for it, if you want flexibility rent and throw that money into and index fund. 

I think it would be better just to stay on good terms and let him know you will contact him when you are ready to sell.

For Airbnb, do i allow STR stays for the next three months and then block out the calendar beyond 3 months for MTR stays?  

Water bills go with owners but it's sewer bills that stay with the property.

Leewell, do you want to stay in San Diego? 

Have you heard the expression "when visiting someone, don't stay longer than 3 days or you begin smelling like dead fish".  

I would stay away from theses guys.