Im an investor, contractor and property manager in Little Rock, Arkansas.  

While some markets like Little Rock or Memphis may have lower entrance costs, they aren't without their own risks, and Houston has historically provided consistent and stable appreciation without the major dips smaller markets tend to endure.This is certainly the first time in a while I'd consider us to be entering a buyers market, so timing should be great for those willing to look. 

It's like buying dairy cows, because you want to produce leather. 

Your tip about getting multiple contractor quotes and checking references is also right on time—I’m in the early stages of gathering names, and I want to make sure I work with people who are reliable and produce quality work. 

So many times I meet house hackers who want fixers and then I explain that yes, there is value (both of my house hacks were fixers), but there is down time without tenants and you could be doing higher income producing activities.

Keep taxing the producers until they leave. 

He's also very active in the Little Rock, Arkansas market

Find absolute rock solid deals priced correctly and the buyers will show up

There you can build up your skills even further and these jobs can pay a lot if you are producing great results.  

Layered lighting (ambient + task) makes the space feel welcoming and usable at all hours.Also in the beginning, whether you are installing or contracting it out... you will produce SO MUCH trash/recycling (imagine every item comes in some sort of box with wrapping).