We're new to real estate and would appreciate advice on our current home in Texas and our future place in Oregon.We love our house in Austin and aren't ready to sell, but as a long-term rental, it would yield (from what I understand) negative cash flow, covering principal and interest but not taxes and insurance.

My concern is whether I’d then be locked into only larger deals in the future. 

Good point, if you have plans to sell in the near future, could be better to wait.

The recipient inherits your original cost basis, which is used to calculate their future capital gains when they sell the property.

It seems like the perfect place, BiggerPockets, for finding people who are like-minded, asking them questions, and learning how to become a future investor.I believe that no matter how unforgiving the market may seem, the right tools, knowledge, and preparation can help minimize risk and create opportunities.

Rock that for about 12 months and add some equity and then you could refi out to conventional so as you pay it down in the future the mortgage insurance will drop off.

Not to mention the economic development steps the town is taking in ensuring the growth of town (roads, schools, zoning) stays on par with the future expected population growth and new jobs that are going to be a result of the new factories opening.  

I would recommend you and your husband get on the same page about future investing goals.

From what you’ve described, it sounds like you’re more focused on long-term appreciation and future benefits rather than immediate cash flow.

One key takeaway for future projects is the value of hiring professional painters.