Other factor is about possible vacancy situation due to reputation of the town. 

If the owner is not there I will look it up on the tax assessors website and will stop by their home or mail them and mention of my interest in their property. 

Would like referrals for contractors that BP members have used in the Austin area.  I have a few, but always open to see who else is out there that is highly recommended.  Thank you!  

I think the best way would be to find whoever has the best reputation on town Facebook pages from people who have had work done.

My website is in my signature line.

@Bola A  I will look at various websites,  including ones regarding population,  biggest employers, income, crime and home ownership. 

If this is a one off flip it may be different but if you plan on creating a long term business doing that your reputation could take a big hit justified or not.With court there is the time you spend on filings,attorneys,preparing for a case, going to court,etc.

Louis elsewhere on this forum but know the market well, it's very street by street, have good boots on the ground, and this website exists because the founder lost a lot of money in cheap St.

Go on the bcbs or human website and get a quote like auto insurance and anticipate a 2 to 5% increase every year.

If you are wanting to find properties on your own, I've found that Shorewest Realtors website (shorewest.com) is pretty helpful.