@Jonathan BeemerWhether you are on active duty or not, you can still use the VA Loan my friend

I know the margin might not be great, but we're willing to play the long game on this part of town. 

Hi BP Community, This is my first post and I am excited to have found such an active and supportive community. 

Now, saying all of this, I would only move forward if you plan to stay at that location for at least another 3-5 years as your primary residence... better to play it safe with a high investment then to lose it all once the economy flips again. 

So this decsion plays a little into both trying to build a portfolio, but also finally having a place in where I'm originally from and often visit.I know I'd likely not see any cashflow from a Westloop condo, but I'm curious if anyone has any recommendations to lower my risk for the area.

Under the newest tax laws that just came into play in December, an individual can gift or die with a combined $11.18M before being subject to transfer taxes (and $22M per couple with portability or split gifts). 

tilt up logistics buildings could be a good play as well. 

I've been an active real estate investor for the past 8yrs and agent with Tierra Antigua Realty.

The play would go something like this:I "buy" a house (Lease Option) for $200,000 with $10 Option Fee and $1200 in monthly payments for a 3 year Option.I "sell" the house (Sandwich Lease Option) for $220,000 with $10,000 Option Fee and $1600 in monthly payments for a 2 year Option.

Decide for yourself first how active or passive you want to be.