If you're not planning to live in the property long-term, I'd suggest prioritizing the property's standalone investment potential during evaluation, regardless of its role in a house-hack scenario.

I would consider Mexico since I can speak and read enough Spanish to get around (not fluent) but I don't know anyone there and I have some concerns about public safety.

Step #PhaseStep1DiscoveryTalk to experts and learn (process, tips, design tips)2DiscoveryCreate social media and document story3DiscoveryGeneral research - budget considerations, financing options, permits, regulations, tax considerations4DiscoveryMarket research - competitor analysis, analyze guest reviews, market trends5DiscoveryGather ideas/inspo (blogs, articles, youtube)6DefineCreate brand and vision7DefineCreate guest requirements (e.g. coffee maker, natural light, near activities, etc.) and prioritize must have, nice to have, etc.8DefineSketch idea for look and feel (architecture and design) - map out the floor layout9DefineConsult an architect (is this needed?)

Our approach for implementation is to break all repairs into 4 categories by priority:1) Health & Safety - most important as could result in tenant lawsuit2) Property Preservation & Government Requirements - don't ignore a roof leak that costs hundreds to fix now, but will costs thousands in the future.

An engineer can help ensure that the conversion meets all current building codes and safety standards for residential living spaces.4. 

I'm a union worker and I'm usually in safety orange and dirty pants.

That is due to complexity of newer systems introduced by efficiency and safety enhancements.  

Houston (and all of Texas) is difficult if your strategy is to prioritize cash flow due to the high taxes.

Really prioritize location over anything else, MF is hard in Austin.

IMO your safety from an investor standpoint comes with building a large portfolio.If you can keep it "under the same roof" even better.Less people to speak with and less drama with logistics and correspondence.The bigger the portfolio, the safer and the better ROI will be long term.Our most unsatisfied investors are the one's that own 1-2 properties and get pissed off with me and my company if they go vacant.Unfortunately, turnkey providers aren't magicians or God and can't wave a magic wand and turn 2 properties into 10 over night lolFolks that own 7-8 or 10+ properties with us aren't bothered if 1 or 2 are vacant, as the others are still performing and cover any losses on those that aren't.Thanks and much success