Exploring Out-of-State REI: DFW, Huntsville/Birmingham, Ocala-Looking for Hybrid Mrkt

[Ven Perla]

Hi BP Community 👋,   

This is my first post here on BiggerPockets, and I’m really excited to be part of this community! I’ve been reading a ton of great advice and learning from many of you, and I’m now at a stage where I’d love to join the conversation, connect with others, and continue learning.

I’m actively exploring out-of-state rental investment and would love some insights and guidance from this awesome network. I’m evaluating a positive cash-flowing rental properties (nothing crazy here) with solid long-term appreciation potential. Open to both single-family homes and small multifamily (like a duplex), depending on market dynamics and returns. My plan is to invest out-of-state with local property management in place, and I’m open to turnkey properties as long as the fundamentals make sense. I’m looking at properties where I can put down 20–25% (~$80K including closing costs), ideally in neighborhoods that are stable and seeing some upward momentum without pricing me out on day one. 

Markets I’m considering and the reasons:

1. North Dallas-Fort Worth, TX – A competitive and maturing market, but with continued population and job growth.

2. Huntsville/Birmingham, AL – More affordable entry points and promising rent-to-price ratios.

3. Ocala, FL – Growing steadily with some newer construction and rising rental demand. 

Would you look at any other that has this solid Hybrid market dynamics? Indiana / Ohio? I am open to your ideas and thoughts so please suggest.

If you have insights into:

✅ Neighborhoods to target (or avoid)

✅ What’s working well for you in these markets

✅ PM recommendations or investor-friendly agents

✅ Risks I should be aware of in each area

✅ Recent deals that might help me benchmark returns

…I’d be incredibly grateful! Please feel free to comment or DM if you’re active in these markets — I’d love to learn more. Thanks in advance for the help!

Cheers,
Ven Perla

[Ven Perla]

Thank you Jared & Melissa. Really appreciate the responses.
I met with your associate/s from REINation and RTR to learn about the offerings and to learn the markets, entry & exit criteria and portfolio build out. In still a bit of learning phase on the potential TK engagement but will surely keep you in mind.