@Chester WangFour replies so far, three from agents, all touting the area where they sell property as the best...classic.

In a more classic retirement plan, the focus is on compounding tax-sheltering over time to maximize growth of the retirement savings. 

Kelli, for that big picture, you might check the classic of landlording lit, a blog post I made on some great starter books (should be free at library) then to fine tune, maybe look at this site under searches like applications, screening, leases......anyone taking the plunge has my vote!

Texas City is a classic working class industrial area, with all the good & bad that goes along with areas like that. 

Ensure that the property is in good condition and won't require extensive repairs or renovations that could eat into your profits.In terms of Cash Flow Analysis $200k property with $1700 rent sounds promising, even though it does not follow classical 1% rule, but you should conduct a detailed cash flow analysis.

@Michael WattsI use Sherwin Williams Pro Classic “oil base”, which is the key.

beyond that, the interiors on really old houses tend to have moved towards the classical.

:-)Oh, yes, I have been in it for a while here in Chicago, particularly the Southside and despite what many say and despite the gross lack of development and resources being put into this part of town, it is still beautiful and contains some of thee best classic Chicago history which can be seen through the architecture. 

I include crossword puzzles and board games with my beach house STR/MTR.

I have the classic dream of quitting my W2 and traveling all while still investing in real estate.