This is where thorough market research, careful property selection, and sometimes a bit of patience come into play.Yes, it's a balancing act, and it's smart to be cautious.

Keep looking and you can land a GREAT deal, but be cautious, cuz bad and good deals look strongly simialar at times. 

It's important to me that I avoid the burnout that a huge mistake on my first deal might cause me, but I know there are dangers to being overly cautious as well.

I was still always very cautious and particular about which properties I did invest in. 

Be very cautious.

Other areas that come up with more cautious responses are Avondale and areas on the west side. 

An in-ground is a rarity in this area, so I imagine the last 25% will be even more excited about it.That said, you have to really be cautious with an in-ground pool around this area of the country.

The amount of work and stress will multiply so I would just be cautious about that

Maybe I am just very cautious but when I hear those words in a syndication presentation my 'careful' radar immediately goes up.

I am currently looking at a property that needs a full renovation that I'm cautiously estimating to be around 50k.My plan is to live in this home after the remodel and then in time buy another home to move into and rent this one out.I am thinking that the smartest thing to do as a beginning "investor" is to hire out the work to a general contractor instead of physically doing it myself.Does anyone have any recommendations for a good GC in the west Houston area for a 1,750 square foot two story home?