New Texas Investor

[Chruisteen Pace]

Hi everyone! Just signed back up with bigger pockets. I have partnered up with my dad to purchase my first investment property. He runs a successful car dealership and plans to provide the funds while I handle the rest. We live in Houston and would like to purchase something within Texas, if possible, something within a 3 hour driving distance. 

I initially began listening to the podcast about 2 years ago, but just absorbed the information. There was some fear of failure and analysis paralysis. Since beginning my real estate photography business, I’ve learned to keep moving forward, even with the fear of failing. This has encouraged me to begin my search to purchase my first property this year.

I’m someone who tries to learn from others mistakes when possible or absorb knowledge from people with experience so any advice or words of wisdom would be greatly appreciated! 

[Lisa Choi]

Welcome back to BiggerPockets, and congrats on taking action — that’s a huge first step! Partnering with your dad sounds like a great setup, especially since you each bring different strengths to the table.

It’s awesome that your experience in real estate photography has helped you build confidence and push through fear. That mindset shift — from perfection to progress — is key in real estate investing. No deal is perfect, and most investors look back and realize their first deal wasn’t their best, but it got them in the game.

Since you’re based in Houston and looking within a 3-hour drive, you’ve got access to some great markets like San Antonio, Austin (if budget allows), College Station, and even parts of East Texas. Each of those has its own pros/cons, depending on whether you’re aiming for cash flow, appreciation, or value-add opportunities.

Quick question — are you planning to buy and hold long-term, or are you leaning more toward fix and flip? Knowing your exit strategy will help you narrow down which markets and property types make the most sense.

A few general tips that helped me when I got started:

• Define your goals clearly — is this about building cash flow, building equity, or just getting experience?

• Start analyzing deals regularly — it builds your confidence and helps overcome analysis paralysis.

• Talk to local property managers — they’ll give you on-the-ground insight on rent ranges, demand, and neighborhood trends.

• Run your numbers conservatively — always leave room for vacancies, maintenance, and surprises.

You’ve already got a great edge with your photography and creative skills — that’ll come in handy for marketing rentals or listing flips.

Feel free to DM if you ever want to talk through deal analysis or markets in Central Texas. Wishing you and your dad a strong first investment year!