I’ve been part of the BiggerPockets community for a while, but this is my first post.

If I purchased a home locally I’d have to ask well beyond the market rate on rent just to break even.

That makes the investing and property management a LOT easier.  

You know how to look, you just have to go find it and find the gems. 

A lot more important compared to newer construction homes where you don't have to deal with certain things when it comes to either of those.Many other nuances but those are just a few that come to mind.

With regard to renovations, I always suggest taking incremental steps to bigger renovations or partnering with someone who has already done a renovation at that level.I've been known to just go for the big rehabs for my personal investments here in Chicago , and during that process, it's always more stressful than it needs to be...As far as navigating the competition, I've found the best thing I can do is get EXTREMELY CLEAR  on what I am looking for; then I am confident pulling the trigger quicky. 

I would like to start connecting with lenders, attorneys, realtors, title companies, and all other professional in the SATX commercial real estate market.  

We just have to follow along.

I was thinking that the very thin hard carpet could serve as a sound insulation layer, and just installing click together LVP right over the thin carpet and the thin hard stick on tiles. 

This is not the utility company's responsibility.Your lease should state the tenant is responsible for maintaining utilities.