I have been looking at some areas in east Atlanta where a house in decent shape is about 250k but surrounding areas have 300s (rehabbed) and 400s (new construction).

If you want my full library, PM me.While the general theory is fairly universal, depending where the OP will be investing, many of the references above will be lacking detail applicable to his home market.I was being polite and pointing out that many things surrounding real estate transactions in Canada are quite different that in the U.S.A. ... as they would be for any country.This is a little different than doing your local research.

If the home is surrounded by homes with garages be careful, because it will take longer to sell the house! 

Paint the cabinets a solid color that coordinates with the counters (which look new) and replace the missing drawer, add cheap cabinet hardware, a microwave/hood combo and do a tile shower surround or replace the surround with one that isn't so drab.

Was looking for any recos from experience in Houston and surrounding areas (Spring, Woodlands, Katy, Conroe, or any others) for apartment investing, as well as property managers in the area (ideally dealing with buildings up to 100 unit range, but am of course open to those with higher experience since I will most likely syndicate).

What do the comps look like for the surrounding area? 

We have family in the area and are familiar some what with our future surroundings but any input or opinions on our plans or goals is welcome.

Most of the area immediately surrounding Yale's campus is either owned by Yale or institutional owners.I am not aware of a New Haven specific investor's group but there are a couple meetups on BP and the CTREIA has recently had a change in leadership and has been more worthwhile than before.Hope this helps!  

If you choose to be an active investor, I would take a chunk of it to get educated and surround yourself with smarter people.

We are looking in the larger cities and surrounding metro area of NC, SC, GA and TN!