Seeking Advice: Launching a Fully Automated Dance Studio in North Austin (On TN Visa)

[Praveen Kumar Senapathy]

Hi BiggerPockets Community,

My wife and I are Canadian citizens currently working full-time in the U.S. on TN visas. My wife is a professional dancer and has long dreamed of opening a state-of-the-art dance studio in North Austin, TX.

We’re now in a position to pursue that dream — but with a catch: due to our TN visa status, we cannot actively manage or work in the business. So we’re looking to build this as a fully automated, passive investment, while complying with all legal and immigration constraints.

Our Vision:

• A multi-studio dance facility (starting with 2–3 studios, ~1,000 sq ft each)

• High-end, modern design with automation: keyless access, booking software, cameras, HVAC controls — all remotely managed

• Passive ownership on our side, with a U.S.-based partner (EAD or Green Card holder) handling day-to-day operations or listed as managing member in the LLC

Where We Stand:

• Budget: We have $100K in cash available

• Exploring whether to build, renovate an existing property, or use modular/tiny home containers on commercial land

• Actively researching commercial properties and land in North Austin

• Open to buying, leasing, or ground-up development — whichever is best suited to our legal and financial position

Looking for Help With:

1. Business + ownership structure: How can we legally structure this as passive TN visa holders, while using a U.S.-based partner?

2. Financing: What are the best ways to get a commercial loan or SBA loan under this structure?

3. Zoning / property strategy: Tips on choosing between buying land vs. building vs. repurposing existing buildings? Is it realistic to use tiny homes or container studios?

4. Austin market insights: Anyone with experience in Austin’s dance/fitness market — what do studios typically gross? Is demand strong in North Austin?

5. Visa options: Eventually, could we transition to an E-2 investor visa to allow more involvement? Can this coexist with our TN status?

We’re passionate about building a high-quality, community-oriented space for dancers while remaining compliant and financially smart. I’d love to hear from others who’ve launched service-based businesses, navigated visa restrictions, or developed commercial space in Texas.

Huge thanks in advance for your time and advice!

—
Praveen