After reading this thread, a few comments come to mind over this common A or B decision.Without knowing how much it is (no need to say) makes my advice (or more accurately, my opinion) more general in nature but here it goes:Lending has very little to no tax shelters whereas buy and hold does.

I'm conservative in nature, but am looking for the push to jump in at some point.

Any amount over your adjusted basis in the property (initial cost minus depreciation) could be subject to capital gains tax unless you reinvest it strategically.2. 1033 Exchange (Involuntary Conversion): A 1033 exchange (involuntary conversion) is specifically designed for situations like fire, natural disasters, or eminent domain.

Naturally your old property must sell before you can take title to the new one, but it gives you a much better head start on the negotiation process of your replacement property.

Building rapport is one of my strong suites so the chemistry tends to flow natural.

Neighborhoods on the shores of Lake Travis, in Round Rock and in Driftwood are among the hottest housing markets in the Austin area. 

I like smartcore from Lowe's, natural wood look with texture.

REI Nation has been around the longest and is more diversified in regards to markets (full disclosure I help dispo deals for them), there are a few more that are Memphis or maybe Little Rock specific.

Jason, im a long time investor in Little Rock.  

Experienced lenders understand the numbers and would only rock with a nice spread, giving them room to recoup their funds.