Attitude and professionalism are paramount; product knowledge next, and then there's your contact/follow-up systems.Put that together, price-test against the market, and you'll have a sustainable, constantly expanding, and very profitable venture.Good luck! 

I agree with what others above said, that having a reliable, honest and knowledgeable team is the most important thing...more so than perhaps the location. 

Being local affords many conveniences based on access and your knowledge of the area.

well I do plan on purchasing a duplex as my first investment and once I complete my Real Estate License during the time of my service I hope to be a lot more knowledgeable and approach SFH's to BRRRR but yes I understand!

I would do what @Mike Grudzien says and talk to a knowledgeable attorney on this.

Each week, I personally analyze the MLS, leveraging my deep knowledge of South Florida’s short-term rental market.

Have invested in ABQ with first purchase in 2020 - and that was based on my knowledge as a film/TV friendly area and affordability.

I am excited to get to know other investors, as I continue to grow in my knowledge and skills in real estate investing. 

Are there any knowledgeable mortgage or finance brokers in the Houston area who have expertise in similar transactions?

Thank you for the absolute TREASURE trove of knowledge and selfless peer education provided on this forum.