I believe this trend will continue as the age of homeowners that are familiar with technology increases.I highly suggest you hedge your bets against agents becoming unpopular and figure out a way to invest intelligently.

Markets are continually fluctuating, inventory volume is constantly going up and down, mortgage rates rise and fall, technologies are introduced, removed, and the list goes on and on.

To answer some of your questions:I've had some difficulties renting out this unit (since January).

Due to my brother, I am familiar with the problem and the difficulties dealing with the problem. 

With converting a home into a tri-fourplex, you will likely face difficulties with the zoning.

Not spectacular numbers, but the area is on the rise as the town government has been pushing the development of a technology center and community/sports center over the past few years.

I think I may have been overestimating the difficulty of managing a lone property -- especially one I live in also.

I have a lot of difficulty projecting past 3 years right especially in terms of rent growth.

By walking through, I can estimate not only the cost of rehab, but the length of time based on difficulty and materials needed.

“Austin has 150,000 employees in the technology industry and that number is only going to increase as major employers expand their presence in Austin,” Angelos Angelou,  of Angelou Economics, said.