The key then will be how to manage and save money which is not taught in schools and I can admit I was awful at saving money in my early years. 

Seasonality driven by factors like weather, school schedules, and buyer habits affects housing demand and pricing, often making certain times of the year more favorable for buying or selling.

Seller is an elderly former school teacher of mine; does have somewhere to go but will be uncomfortable for her, 2.

Plenty of renters and although home to a state school the town does not feel seasonal due to the other major employers.

You may need a property manager if you are going to be busy in law school.

You can create custom maps to mark areas of interest, track properties you're considering, and note key amenities like schools, shopping centers, and public transport.

But if you're buying in a decent area (i.e. average schools, decent area, consistent appreciation even if its just 3 or 4% on avg), then you're going to do extremely better than 15 to 18%.  

somehow HELOCs are viewed as magic. 

No magic pixie dust. 

Overall Austin is currently a Buyers market but there are some neighborhoods that are Sellers markets due to good schools, accessibility to Tech hub job areas, parks, entertainment etc.