There are agents that won't work certain areas because they don't relate well to people of different cultures, or whatever.

The big thing, especially in Lehigh and cape coral is too keep an eye out for chinese dry wall.  

Our low cost of living compared to other major cities (Chicago, New York, DC, LA etc) is attractive to folks from those markets because you can get a somewhat downtown experience, pro sports teams, culture/sights/attractions at a comparatively affordable price.

Texas culture abhors unnecessary regulation.  

They are just as much a culture as they are a company.  

We also looked at the companies we felt embodied the culture we wanted and noticed alot of times their mission statement was totally different than what we thought.

That hits the nail on the head - the old Chinese proverb that a journey of 10,000 miles starts with the first step.

So I purposefully only used my first credit card for gas purchases, or small expenses like chinese takeout, and would stay under that 200 dollars per month.

Some may have a culture they are trying to perpetuate or may not hire because they think you are a liability, but they will usually hire just about anyone.I would go ahead and start talking to brokers now to have something lined up for as soon as you are licensed.Also, you should think about your goals when picking a broker.  

This is a culturally southern town with very clear neighborhoods.