Modern builds and thoughtful rehabs sell quickly.Key ROI Factors:Strong rental market for investors who want to flip and hold.First-time homebuyers are flocking here for affordable entry-level homes with character.Pro Tip: Target small, outdated homes on larger lots to capitalize on backyard improvements or expansions.3.

For me biggest challenge I always have is getting returns done and k-1s issues

I plan to use a HELOC for the improvements to create lots with improvements.My plan for the rest of the parcel, now roughly 7 acres, is to built a primary home for my family, and to put in 5-6 cabins.

Thanks Anthony, solid idea to improve efficiency.

Quote from @Julia Lyrberg: Investing in Austin's real estate market can be challenging due to high property prices and market saturation.

This may be challenging with both of you in full-time W2 jobs, but worth considering if one of you can transition to real estate part-time.Alternatively, the Short-Term Rental (STR) loophole offers another path.

For example she starts dating a carpenter or a handyman type (or even worse a wannabe carpenter or handyman) who moves in and does work on the home and claims they should have equity too for making those improvements.

The biggest challenge for being a great realtor is always generating leads and staying organized.

I wouldn't necessarily put a lot of efforts into improving/building/spending in hopes of staying booked solid, but it is a nice 'side hustle' for a pretty piece of land to bring in some extra income while it sits. 

Like aircraft checklists and vehicle operators manuals (the -10s), one can benefit from extensive research, trial and error, and deliberate improvement principles gained by the many that have gone the path before.