One thing I liked before the redesign was that they gave numbers based on the average, upper 25% and top 10%.

Based on what you shared, if you are competing with wholesalers you are likely in the most competitive price point space on the MLS.

Doesn't matter if the municipality for property taxes or utilities (usually water or perhaps sewer), lender for a mortgage, or even a condo association for HOA dues...As for the OP, I'm not sure I understand all of this since I don't do it. 

I'm open to hear thoughts and opinions on best markets in those 2 states (or any other promising markets based on the criteria I outlined above) that I should focus on as a first-time investor.

First thing is to know the local Law based on the Rental Lease that you hold.

Exploring creative financing options like portfolio loans leveraging combined property income, hard money loans based on property equity, private money lending from investors, or negotiating seller financing for new property acquisitions could offer viable alternatives to support your investment goals.

Thousand Oaks, Stone Oak, Encino Park, Bulverde, etc) Schertz/Cibilo (not far from military bases, easy access to Austin/New Braunfels, up and coming/ many new nice neighborhoods) If the price range is  $175-250, I would look near Sea world and the west side.

Selling you a product is easy but relating to you based on their personal expierence is not.

Okay just to keep things in perspective, I think Pacific Heights - fictional Hollywood thriller not based on a true story - is a great example of  "1990 in cinema" or "Films featuring Melanie Griffith," but maybe  not a great example of what happens when you wait a day or two to figure out a best course of action to deal with people. 

Is the $500k home in town on city water / sewer ?