3) Check out some of the local meetups that you can find in this forum!

Always check your lease as to what it specifies, AND if your area has any tenant bill of rights that specify this notice further.The Notice To Quit, is your 3 day notice to pay rent.

Get one with checkbook control so you can invest as quickly as writing a check or in your case doing a wire transfer from you solo 401k account into a brokerage account at Vanguard or wherever you want. 

Where to start:Just a couple of considerations:Residential...you could possible get a check on a lease in a week or so from the day you start, probably not common, but potential. 

., you can also check out https://www.rentometer.com/

Houston's diverse, and the real estate market is buzzing.Check your budget, how much risk you can handle, and what you want from the investment.Montrose, The Heights, Eado, and Museum District are buzzin' with mid-term rental potential.Research the neighborhoods, check the rates, and do the math on costs before diving in.

Just checked online that Nest Thermostat and Nest Thermostat E can be locked within a range.

If not, check with local lenders (community banks, etc.) and see if they have a better option than the lenders you are dealing with. 

Have to check with your local laws on any permitting that is required to do this.  

Check with the town hall.