When doing rental comps, I use the MLS, Zillow, Rent.com, Conrex, Evernest, and about ten other property manager websites that are local brokerages and manage over 100 homes.

There are also some really great resources for anyone starting out with some local groups such as AZREIA where we have monthly meetings and some great subgroups, including a new investor subgroup. 

The $500 one had a local number; I called it and left a message, but they never returned my call.

Borrowed 250k from a private money lender (local attorney) at 10%, to be paid in a balloon upon the sale.

I definitely encourage you to visit whatever market you plan to invest in to familiarize yourself with the area and connect with local professionals.

Also the constant in and out of different families probably wears the property much faster than usual, there is much more liability with constantly changing  tenants, and many locals governments are creating ordinances against them.

Look at credit unions if you really want to go that route and if it is local to Austin.

There are still pockets in those areas but if you screen and give a good product you can attract great tenants. 

Columbus & Raleigh-Durham are both great places to invest as an out-of-state new investor Short-term rentals can be challenging and is always subject to new local registration and taxes. 

Just keep the data on views and whatnot, and maybe have some local landlords give you feedback on the listing.