I am encountering roadblocks when it comes to our credit score (mine is good / his is crap), experience with flipping (I have no experience / he has 22 years of flipping experience) and the amount of cash liquidity that some of the hard money lenders want is still on the high end especially starting out.

I had a conversation not that long ago with a friend who I've known since high school. 

I live in California and like many California Investors prices are just too high in the area I live.

The taxes will be higher in Texas on property than you realize, and obviously, they are high here in Chicago as well.

The cost is very high interest and origination fees.

Airbnb can provide great cash flow, especially in high-demand areas, but it requires more hands-on management.

I have high 800's credit score and prefer 0 points.

Look at Houston communities that have high rental demand, reputable schools, low crime rates, and enticing amenities.

I suspect you started off too high.

It's a B- class neighborhood.Apparently there is some dog pee odor and some bad scratches in 2 of the 3 bedrooms and water damaged next to the kitchen (which is tile).The bamboo flooring flows through all the rest of the house except the bathrooms and kitchens.Would would you suggest?