Low crime and good schools except for problematic counties and cities which every state has.

River, I have bid on a few properties that would be great for short term but most of what I am looking at are for long term due to town restrictions and very good school districts.

In a survey of high school and college-age people by software firm Jobber last year, 75 percent said they would be interested in vocational schools offering paid, on-the-job training (WSJ).”And this idea of blue collar career interest was recently discussed on the All In Podcast, which includes a group of prominent Venture Capitalists.

Couple things I wish someone told me when I rented out my primary in Katy:- your taxes will go up dramatically over time - cash flow is inconsistent- while Katy is a fantastic rental market it's still competitiveTo answer your questions: - yes, the homestead exemption will increase your taxes at a faster rate but you can protest them either yourself (I don't recommend as I've tried and it was a pain) or with a professional service- To start, you're either going to pay for books, classes, etc. or pay the school of hard knocks.

Both have good school districts and are desirable.

Look at census data or local reports.Explore the Neighborhoods:Amenities: Properties close to schools, shops, and transit tend to attract more tenants.

I got my real estate license in my late 20's, kept updated on continuing education, but only activated the license after all my kids started school. 

But city governments, schools, public libraries and first responders could face major budget shortfalls."

Due to crime and poor schools . 

Only nearby city that rivals it is Amarillo (2.5hr drive north) and it does not have anywhere near the education infrastructure or $$$ inflow Lubbock has (at least not yet) with Texas Tech and associated schools, SPCC, LCU.