I would suggest focusing more on the process, instead of finding the "perfect deal" so you can learn and get comfortable with how each step works.

If you aren't comfortable going that route, go by a couple local Home Depot stores and you should find guys and trucks out there who can help (I found a handyman that way buying flooring one Saturday morning).If all else fails, there are apps (my neighbor showed me one called Handy) which you can literally book a handyman to come by and fix practically anything.

@Billy Archer, I should have partnered, but I always feel most comfortable messing up when it's my time and money on the line.

Beyond that, I'd be comfortable using the $ to invest.The BRRR deals I do in affordable markets only usually require maybe 5K of my own cash.

I have had seen  some properties but their out of my comfortable price range how do I change that?

My question is: if you were in my shoes would you wait to invest in austin market or invest ASAP?

At the end of the day, I see my first investment being a place I'd be comfortable calling home in some respect as well as a "good move".

Hi Lavon,  I understand the shoe you wear. 

I would suggest trying to find Single Family homes where you can have separate living spaces (walkout basements, separate entrance) that way you get the comfort of a duplex without the price. 

Without this the rest of you liability tiers may be voided.2 - Umbrella policy - pretty much another no brainer - its cheap protection. 3 - manage debt loads - if you are comfortable keeping a higher debt limit, it is a strategy to reduce your net worth and make that target smaller. this comes into play when considering tapping equity in existing properties.these 3 should get you started. but its all up to your own risk tolerance.