Same goes across markets.

@Cole DobbsIn addition, I may be able to help you and connect you with some key real estate investor players in the Houston, Texas market since I am an Investor myself that have done most of these real estate investing strategies and also an investor-broker who has helped over 400 investors like you. 

I've done pretty well as a relatively novice investor in the stock market, just investing in S&P 500 tracking index funds.

@Cheng ChuMcKinney is a fantastic market with strong population growth, and it’s a great choice for single-family home (SFH) investments.

Vendors who partner with Costco pay for market exposure and referrals, which often adds to the final cost passed on to the customer.

My goal Is to help get items of value/desire back into the 2nd hand market instead of getting just thrown out.

@Alice Fairbairn all that's great, but what about marketing?

Connecting with local GC groups in your area will help you connect with subcontractors, find out tips and tricks of the trade in your local area (since all areas and their real estate differ slightly).Also, have you considered the motivation behind building a brand-new duplex versus finding one on the market?

Use tools like AirDNA or Mashvisor to provide market data on projected rental income and occupancy rates, and make sure your lender works with appraisers familiar with short-term rentals.

I chose to invest in 1272 Lakins Rd, Etna, due to its potential in a growing market.