I've bought used ranges and they tend to work well and last without issue.If you're only interested in buying new, check out Sears.

Mini splits are capable of heating and cooling but they're a bit ugly with the inside units being bulky and noticeable and also they are a bit more of a challenge to service (no central air filter)Does anything else run on propane such as the dryer, water heater, range, etc?

And thats how it was done at least in the SF Bay Area and 5 years earlier homes were trading in the 30 to 50k range.. 

Looking for a house in the range of 150k to 250k with a 50k downpayment.

The 4/2 model we are selling for $275k usually appraises in the $330k to $340k range on pre-construction. 

As others have said there are places to look and others to stay away from, part of which will depend on what your personal objectives are. 

All the SFH 3/2.5 in my area range anywhere from $1,200-1,700 all similar in detail inside.

Market comparables are important as we all know, but they can vary based on finishes and quality of work - so rather than just take the market estimate stated by zillow (as an example), I would ask a local realtor to provide a range of comps and then make sure as you renovating you're actually renovating with a house or two in mind.

So far, I am interested in the midtown area, farmers branch, Las Colinas, and maybe grapevine if something there is in my price range. 

No one can do a better job objectively analyzing the similarities and differences in your units and the market as a whole- as you can.Rent-o-meter is living 18-24 months in the past in my market... in this "balls to the wall market" that is a HUGE discrepancy.