We are both originally from NYC and have roots here so I'm pretty sure I can relearn the area(we have been gone for 10+ years) with the help of local friends and family.

The garage is leaning slightly to the right - there are framing issues with the garage (resulting from wood root).

If it is removed the roots will die and rot.

They also lose points for not having lived or having any roots in the area. 

(i.e. plumbers cleaning out tree roots from your septic lines or having windows replaced due to vandalism)Also, you absolutely have to account for vacancy. 

@Kyle Root there's no need to avoid the agent.

In addition to roots being notorious for foundation problems, shrubs and trees are a lot of work.

My wife and I are looking to invest and have roots in Austin even though we live in Los Angeles...so we have a network in Austin as opposed to Kansas City for example.Thanks y’all!

I think the root cause of the problem is an industry accepted narrative that knowledge is power.  

I use the California Association of Realtors residential lease, and it has a section under maintenance that reads: “Tenant shall be charged for repair of drain blockages or stoppages, unless caused by defective plumbing parts or tree roots invading sewer lines.”So I wouldn’t see any issue with making the tenant responsible for calling a plumber and dealing with a clog they caused by flushing something that wasn’t meant to be flushed.