I would suggest you focus on your sphere of influence or pick an area your really familiar with and door knock. 

As it relates to Texas I think property tax's have an influence as well.. those are fixed costs that are 1 to 3X higher than other markets for similar priced properties.. 

At first sight they should no longer influence you in any way, anymore.

@Dustin Hughes If you are fiscally able to adhere to your 1-year lease I think that is the best solution.

If you are dealing with a local bank they may be influenced by the inspection report as well.

I have had a passion for real estate since my teen years - most likely the result of being influenced by the real estate boom in the early 2000's, and of course the so, so many house flipping infomercials. 

But we are more concerned with the market value, so the most weight will be given to the market approach but may be influenced by other values.

That builds your influence and your money.

All the while, I have lived in a fiscally responsible way and well under my means in order to save to make this dream a reality. 

I know people have really strong negative feelings and i am not here making any attempt to change or influence your opinion about the people.