Sometimes cities will allow this, but it depends on local zoning rules.If neither option works, it might be worth consulting a real estate attorney to explore your options.

Starting with remote investing, like in Charlotte, can be an option, but it might be worth exploring local opportunities in Orange County too.

Network with your local market experts and see how people are making $.

I know people who do this and I do not believe there are issues with it, but speak to an attorney and they should probably notify the company if they are an employee of that company that they are doing this.

Use your skills to network with local investors and professionals by attending meetups in the Conroe and Houston area, joining online forums, and connecting with property managers or realtors.

Where I live in SC you HAVE to have local knowledge to make things work. 

My wife and I also own the only interior design company specifically for real estate investors, Ivory Home.

Our company started precisely the way you stated your idea came to you. 

This strategy aligns well with the buy-and-hold model.Leverage Local Expertise: Partner with professionals like real estate agents familiar with rental markets and property managers who understand tenant needs.

In my case, I have residential rentals in one LLC, commercial properties in another, self-storage in a third, and my real estate company operates in a fourth.