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This could allow you to reinvest the proceeds directly into one or more properties in Houston, which seems to align with your goal of expanding locally.Leverage New Construction Opportunities: I work with Neu Real Estate Group in Indianapolis, where we focus on high-quality duplex builds that are designed with strong rental returns in mind.

That's a little easier.Go to Redfin, find 3 properties that had a short DOM that sold recently that are comps in your market, look at the level of finish and design layout and make yours look like that. 

@Nithin ThampiBuilding-to-Rent (BTR) communities are newly built neighborhoods designed for rental purposes, offering shared amenities, low maintenance, and attractive properties.

You mention your design is the "most ripped off design in real estate", I'd argue it is, right behind Carrot's sites :-).

This is not bad but it will definitely take away from my budget to improve the interior of one unit that will be vacant this month in addition to installing a mini split system in each unit and possibly getting a new walkway and fence. 

An Architect can look out for your best interest in the project plus can bring all the Engineers necessary for the build (Civil, Structural, MEP, Sprinkler/Fire suppression, etc.)As far as the build itself, if it's in an established city or town on a tax lot, then you'll need to go through the design and permitting process, gain zoning approval if necessary, and then build up from there.

Personally I use Forefront, but its mostly designed for real estate leads.

We dedided to do all the details exceptionally well, make sure we are in the top 10% from a quality, design, renovation standpoint when compared to our competition.

Things to look out for are old windows, old wood siding, peeling paint on exteriors and interiors, and damage to window sills, door frames, and walls.