I have narrowed down 3 areas:> Manor, Tx (Location is across HWY 290/130) > North Leander, Tx (Location around Larkspur Blvd or intersection 183&29, Specifically Orchard ridge(Lennar) and larkspur milestone communities along the border of Leander and liberty ) > Liberty Hill, Tx (In proximity of Bill burden Elementary or Liberty hill elementary school)I would like to get honest feedback and comparison about the 3 Areas in terms of the following:1.

Real estate offers a pretty low barrier to entry both in terms of time and education costs.

Biggest gaps were in terms of the number of hours of labor needed, and a few big ticket items that I added to scope. 

I.e. you need $100k in cash to do deal: A puts in $25k, B puts in $15k and C puts in $60k, then A gets 25% of the "equity" side, B 15% and 60%.In terms of the management side, I have always operated where it was my wife and I doing it all, so it was easy. 

I am based out of Houston so Houston is also an option for me but I am willing to to look other cities and states depending on its future prospects.If I could get some insights on what markets you have found to be the most appealing in recent time in terms job and population growth , stable rents and healthy returns , it would be a massive help for me find a starting point for doing my due diligence.

As for setting aside ongoing reserves that is going to be a function of building age, upcoming capital requirements and even lease terms.2) In terms of cost for replacing roofs, depends on the roof type.  

For now I have the 10k guaranteed.Where do I begin in terms of options?

Some of my clients who have had their units mainly for a 'college rental' strategy has definitely seen a slow down in terms of absorption rate but I was able to rent a 3 bed by a medical school for $3600/month in Boston.

There is not a whole lot of other work I can do in terms of increasing cash flow. 

You may wish to confirm that the new 401k provider has experience with the particular investments in which you intend to invest your retirement funds as you very likely will have questions in terms of the mechanics (e.g. how do you invest in real estate, etc.).3.