I remember as a traditional student in business the Gale publications allowed people to purchase their directory for different purposes (starting or expanding one's business). 

This Act does not apply with respect to,(a) living accommodation intended to be provided to the travelling or vacationing public or occupied for a seasonal or temporary period in a hotel, motel or motor hotel, resort, lodge, tourist camp, cottage or cabin establishment, inn, campground, trailer park, tourist home, bed and breakfast vacation establishment or vacation home;So yeah, make it REALLY clear that this is a vacation home.

I find it curious that a mortgage/note with its $$ value when originated and recorded is public information, but that amount becomes "private" the day after recordation.It's even more appalling, when a bank sells a 2nd mortgage/note at foreclosure, subject to the first, knowing full well there is no way for a buyer to find out what the payoff of the first is.  

If you want a salary before jumping into the game, consider going to someplace like Coldwell Banker Heathrow or Orlando and asking about an OA position (Office Administrator). 

Thus, I would recommend you try a small/medium size flip and if needed use a JV partner to split your risk.If you would like to borrow for the flip, there are plenty of private capital sources who publicize in the Marketplace on BP who will offer you 90% LTC and rehab.

Voted best beach in the country by a number of publications.

Is there any public transportation within walking distance?  

I'm excited to be in a local market when it appears that prices aren't crazily high and, judging by the new place I've rented the rental prices are quite high compared to the buying price (when comparing to London or Australia of course) so there should be some decent yields out there.I'm new to property in general also so have been blitzing through some podcasts and books and hope to have better knowledge by the time my credit rating has a chance to build over a year or so.In addition to the above education it would great to get some Houston specific information so if anyone can share some good links for reading up, any charts/graphs of historic house prices, area guide links, work out if prices/yields here are currently perceived to be high/low or anything in general you feel would be a help.Differences for me coming from the UK would be that public transport links are very important when deciding where to invest, where as here it doesn't seem to have much relevance as everyone drives but I imagine other fundamentals like Jobs, schools, shops, non-flood areas are still as important.

I currently work in school district bond construction management (not out at the construction site, but in the administrative offices).  

I have been in property management for about 3 years as a Leasing Consultant and Administrative Assistant.