Taxes are definitely high in Texas and the Austin area market is definitely hot which makes it harder to find deals.  

.- The re-inspection fee, if needed, is typically in my area the result of a listing agent not doing their jobs and double strapping the hot water heater, putting CO detectors in, or otherwise ensuring the property is in financeable condition on the day it is put on the MLS, with no blatant health/safety issues, etc etc.

When I place and ad on Craigslist I ask that they reply first with a portfolio of before and after pictures and 3 references In which I can call and or in person meet and see the work that have been done.

I'd love to meet up with other investors in the area. 

You may be interested in a meet up that is going to take place on November 29th in Mesa.

With a target customer segment in mind, then you set about developing a product or service that your customer is willing to pay for that consistently meets their needs better than the competition.When we bought our two SF rentals, I used that same approach.  

And network with the locals at the REIAs and meet ups. 

But really, in my mind, say you stay there and do some repairs and paint and furniture in the beginning, then maybe some time in between, you might meet those required days.

There has to be a local group where I can meet fellow investors, realtors, contractors etc. 

I hope to meet a few of you here and I hope to learn a lot from you!