I am currently a student at Texas A&M University and I am very new to real estate investing.

Ask your real estate agent about the area and do your own research.

5 hours a way- distance flip Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

All real estate transactions, whether purchase, sale or rental, prices are determined by market supply and demand.

Welcome to BP and back to the real estate game!

I tell all my clients I would rather see them use that big amount of money to invest in real estate. 

To boost bookings, connect with local realtors, engage real estate investors, partner with relocation experts and insurers, offer business rates, target healthcare travelers via Furnished Finder, collaborate with property managers, amp up online advertising, improve your listing, attend networking events, and follow up with potential clients.

This gives you recourse if the buyer stops making payments as you can have the courts enforce this performance deed and transfer ownership back to you.Just make sure you have a competent REAL ESTATE attorney review the documents prior to signing them to ensure that everything is properly worded to ensure you are protected.  

It's a great way to keep up with the market on a real time basis. 

I believe you can use the Build  Your Team feature here on the website but I do have an attorney in mind, he has offices in TX, Mexico, and CA but believes he co-counsels outside of those states if needed.