I like to share this story as a cautionary tale and while nobody has a crystal ball and can predict the future, understanding the end goal can  help investors understand  whether they invested in a market that can reap the true benefits of SFH rental ownership or perhaps point them in that direction. 

I can help you navigate the area & find property/connections that meets your goals, I will send you a message and we can go from there!

I hope this helps!

Similar with a SFH: I can at least get in the market with a 5% conventional loan not expecting cash flow but hoping appreciation will help me out in the next 2+ years and I will at least be able to put up the remainder of the expenses since I do live with my parents.

Someone said ZILLOW is not recommended (not sure why)Help much appreciated.

The why will help you adjust course so that you can learn what you need to do to qualify - either for a different property, or in the future. 

Perhaps, you have a recommendation on a local (Houston) real estate agent that can help me locate tenants/roommate? 

Yes, injecting a lot of out-of-state/foreign capital is great and certainly will help boost the economy.

Similar with a SFH: I can at least get in the market with a 5% conventional loan not expecting cash flow but hoping appreciation will help me out in the next 2+ years and I will at least be able to put up the remainder of the expenses since I do live with my parents. 

I hope this helps and others will add more.