I moved to Austin back in 2012 and I was making about $30k/yr at entry level marketing job at a software company back then.

@Brad Haughton  Although not in the same domain, there is a design principle called "Separation of concern" in the world of software engineering.

Hard money would be the way to go but I know on our end we'd want to make sure you have some boots on the ground to monitor the project if you aren't able to physically keep tabs. 

There's usually some good locals that monitor the state forums and I think you'll get a better response there. 

@Will Fraser Thanks so much for your comprehensive and thoughtful response.I absolutely agree that every economic situation is different depending on what triggered the downturn, so I am continuing to watch and monitor how things progress in this current, ever-changing environment. 

What software do you use? 

Are you using any kind of software?

Go on Zillow or get a free trial to REIPRO or some other software where you can see all the house info.

We're always trying to find the best of the following, so a (relatively) nationwide database of these types of companies would be invaluable:- Law firms (Real Estate and/or Foreclosure attorneys)- Investor friendly Title Companies - General Contractors (grass and snow maintenance can be difficult as well, so landscaping could be a worthwhile facet of this too)- REO Agents- Property Preservation Companies/Mold Remediation Companies- Alarm Services - Tax monitoring services- Investor friendly insurance companies

This is scrutinized more on 3-4 families, and not so important on single families or duplexes.If you're looking to owner occupy, this is an incredible option for a first time investor, since not only is it easy entry, but you also are able to leverage a 203K Consultant, who monitors the work done by the contractor and signs off that the work has been completed to the FHA's standards, before the mortgagor releases funds to the contractor.