... it looks like I will get to leave the metromess for the Petroplex. Any suggestions on whether to buy or rent? And places to look?

Some good stuff here.

Buying is really tough right now and has been for some time.

Those homes on the market fall into either a newer built home with small yards so you don't have to pay too much for watering your yard... or they are older homes that either have or have not been renovated but have traditional size yards.

My brother just had an offer accepted but he was telling me that homes go on the market and are typically gone within 24-48 hours. He was telling me that he would typically check online early in the morning, like a home, then go back to look at pictures after work and it would be gone. Most homes you will need to make a full offer or be prepared to pay slightly more than original price. There's no time to lob in a 95% asking price offer because they'll brush you off and accept the 100+% offer in a few hours.

There are several new and nice apartment complexes that probably would be open to <1 year leases if you are interested in renting and looking around for what part of town to buy in.

What is your price range? I can help you narrow your search areas maybe.
Welcome to Midland btw.

Midland Ag, send me an email. csplowboy12@hotmail.com