*This advice is anecdotal, but I personally would stay away from Home Depot, Lowes, and other box stores vinyl planking.

I have an opportunity to purchase 5-7 lots in an area that already has some trailers on it. In general, how much would it cost to prep .25 acres (perc test, running power, water, occupancy permit, etc) to allow for a ...

Austin is a great market as long as you stay away from downward trending areas. 

No need to stay in the middle of this deal.Happy investing

You could try managing from an hour away and if it works out stick with it, if not you can always hire a property manager.Elmhurst is generally a better area, but houses are also usually more expensive, so you have to weigh that and see if you would rather get more house for your money in a cheaper area, or a nicer house (and nicer tenants) in a better area.If you do decide to manage from afar then I would say stay out of C areas.

It will be lower if the tenant stays for 2 years or more, etc.  

They have a toddler and the dog stays inside and say there has never been an issue with the dog. 

@Sam Crochet I've been on the other end of the deal, but make sure that your homeowners/landlord policy covers vacation rentals i.e. subletting for stays of less than 30 days. 

When my wife was pregnant in the summer and had the baby and stayed home that summer , I had the electric bill from HELL .

I intend to use this property as my primary residence. i currently rent an apartment where I stay right now.