We are looking to expand our portfolio of investors and connect with others with our same vision.

I love the vision of working late into the nights while your kids are sleeping and you are up working to make all your dreams come true, very inspirational! 

I understand this is a loaded question and most of the people on this forum are quite busy, but as a newbie who is only equipped with capital and a vision, what is the “rule of thumb” I should remember as I start out?

I've only recently started listening to bigger pockets podcasts, and reading about real estate. my vision is the same as most people on here, which is multiple passive income streams, one of them being real estate. it doesn't take a genius to figure out austin real estate has a pretty high barrier entry to market, with a lot of big fish.. that being the case, I'm wondering what would be possible ways to enter the market (eg. foreclosures, gentrifying neighborhoods, off market properties, etc.), and potential strategies to look for and assess these deals.

My last 2 were both rented when (1) we still had finishing work/backspash tiling to do. (2) we had just sheetrocked.It all depends on the potential tenants "vision" and you should be able to assist that by having a flooring sampling ready.In the one, I was bringing sheetrock out to the dumpster when an older couple approached me and asked what I was doing.

We hired a good (and fast) contractor we trusted and could work with, who asks questions when they aren't 100% certain of your vision, instead of just forging forward.

Tell a story with your numbers, build credibility with your track record of numbers, and lay the vision for them in terms of numbers.

I have done a bit of research on modular homes and think it might be cheaper than to build a place from scratch, however I am having trouble finding a model that matches my vision for this center.Does anyone have any experience building in this area of the country or have any advice regarding modular homes vs building (construction loan)?

@Allison PanilaIf we shadows have offended,Think but this, and all is mended,That you have but slumber'd hereWhile these visions did appear.And this weak and idle theme,No more yielding but a dream,Gentles, do not reprehend:if you pardon, we will mend:And, as I am an honest Puck,If we have unearned luckNow to 'scape the serpent's tongue,We will make amends ere long;Else the Puck a liar call;So, good night unto you all.Give me your hands, if we be friends,And Robin shall restore amends.1.

Review everything and modify it to meet your vision of the property and match your management and financial goals/targets.