We own multiple properties in the Katy area -- cash flow is the objective.   

Start by clearly defining your goals and objectives.

Before picking a market, I recommend that you clearly and specifically define your objectives and what kind of return you are looking for, then find the markets that best help you achieve that.

A less than double digit price growth rate, but still leads the pack. 

I care more about my costs on the investment than what the holding costs are because the tenants pay the holding costs (assuming at least cash neutral).Related to item 2 and 3, the cost is not just the cost but the loss of return if that money was used for a different investment.Unless you have a 7 digit salary, it is tough to accumulate significant wealth without leverage.  

He didn’t want to dig it out and clean it out.

A deal starts to makes sense when it reaches your return objectives.

I agree with @KJ L. that you need to identify what type of investing you'd like to do in either or both of those cities.I have been to both of these cities and found approximately 15 properties that have been contacted that I would like to get under contract, to wholesale.My objective is to wholesale first and build up some capital reserves, then eventually to buy a SFR to fix and flip.

@Jonathan Hagedorn Your objectives seem aligned with putting the LLC in the property.

Avoid the "shiny object syndrome" by narrowing down your niche as soon as possible.