There is very little use for an old store of these types in the smaller communities once they leave.4. 

Best of luck to all of you in your asset building jouneys.Andy

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.

I find it best if you approach it thinking it's more-so a commercial lease done in a residential asset.

How do I go about finding the best banks or companies to get pre-approvals and is it worthwhile to get multiple?

I help investors optimize their financial strategy by implementing the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC), finding the best insurance for their properties and cars, and connecting them with legal experts for living trust creation.

You are still going to get the best rate possible with your significant down payment and with good credit I'm assuming.   

Best to keep some cash in it, and own the property as a rental.

Your advice about keeping an eye out for neglected properties and checking foreclosure auction listings is very helpful.

i wouldn't tell you where you should move since i don't know you.also, a lender would be in the best position to advise whether you qualify for a specific loan.