My tenant is a middle-aged Hispanic woman.

If you compare the two properties (the one in Texas with the one in Alabama), the cost to rent ratio is huge, At first glace you can tell that from a cash flow perspective, the Birmingham property is a sure bet, however there are many other factors that would show that in the long run, the Texas property may turn to be a better long term investment ( Age, neighbourhood, type of renters, potential appreciation, saleability, etc).Many times where you have two different properties in two different states that rent for a similar amount, you are still comparing apples to oranges for the reasons mentioned above

I wish I started at your age. 

@Vinh Huynh, you will most likely cash flow negative as house ages and requires maintenance.

Obviously, choices are based on goals, savings, age, etc. 

I know a 40 hour work week is industry standard for contractors, but the next one I hire will have to make me confident they are willing to do what it takes to meet deadlines.Some other things to lookout for: Advanced age (this guy was in his sixties) may equal experience - but lets face it - it also means less ambition and energy.

The number of units you have as well as the age of the property are  similar to what I have been investigating.

Samantha Lotti I use listsource.com; as for the criteria I use age 65+, equity 60%+, out-of-state owned, 1-25% LTV, and owned for 10+ yrs.

@Ti JacksonIt's awesome to hear from someone my age!

They might snag a deal that you like, but there are tons of properties available - and there are tons of agents available if the agent you're working with tries to steer you away from purchasing a property that they want for themselves (I actually think this might bite them in the butt, though, since they aren't working in their client's interest - word travels fast in the internet age).