I am based in Orange County, and work as a geotechnical engineer at my family owned Geotechnical Engineering firm specializing in all soil work for construction (if you need any soils reports or have environmental issues send me a PM).

You wouldn’t want to waste the time and money getting septic inspections, soil tests, etc just to have the seller pull out last minute.

This will include doing a soil analysis. 

You can also go to the city to find out the approval process and permit requirements as you may need to get a land disturbance permit and provide stormwater management and soil erosion control plan before you start clearing.

Soil in Texas is the reason why we don't have basements.

Preferably a goof 6+ft away depending on if you have soils that absorb water well. 

Thank you Sandy and Tommy. 

Working through the ins and outs of everything from assessments to  soil compatibility require some solid knowledge and experience.2.  

Additionally, the HELOC on our primary residence is with a small community local bank, Sandy Spring. 

I live in East Sandy and it seems it would be tough even to pay a mortgage with the rental prices- looks like $600-$800K homes rent for about $3000.