These often will vary from neighborhood to neighborhood so it is important to know the different rates even within the same city.All that being said... a 6% rate is significantly different from a 12% rate.

Utilities in place, Streets paved, Builder selling, total lots in neighborhood are 301.

Should I stick to one area or neighborhood at a time until I learn that one (or at least learn the listing prices)?

I don't think as a new homeowner you should feel entitled to an expensive house in a nicer neighborhood.

One in an emerging neighborhood that needs cosmetics, light remodeling just sitting for $110,000.

Ditto what he said.Walk your neighborhood and drive all around the larger area.Drive up one street and down another.

We have several neighborhoods in the Houston area that are being re-vitalized.

You want to be at the high end of the range in your neighborhood.

Any particular neighborhoods with good cash-flow properties, quality people, and good management companies to run the buildings?

* Retail/Office Buildings – Designed for retail or office sales and display, this category includes stand-alone buildings such as offices, supermarkets, convenience stores, drug stores, department stores, bakeries, and beauty shops – as well as strip centers, and neighborhood and community shopping centers