Learning St. Louis Market

[Brett Willette]

I am 6 months from graduating and moving to St. Louis from Columbia, MO. I plan on purchasing either a single family home and doing renovations, or purchasing a multifamily home, staying in one unit, renting out the other(leaning towards the latter because I am a soon-to-be CPA and anticipate a busy work schedule). The only problem is, I am not very familiar with the St. Louis market. I grew up an hour south of St. Louis, so I have heard of most of the municipalities such as Kirkwood, Chesterfield, and Clayton. I know my way around most of the city. I am just unaware of the real estate values/neighborhoods. What is the best way to learn about the different neighborhoods and best areas to invest in real estate in St. Louis while I am finishing up my time Columbia? I want to make an educated decision on where I make my first purchase. Are there good websites to visit? Maybe some books or magazines to read? Or  should I talk to a realtor from the area? Any advice is much appreciated!!! 

[Clarissa Kenyon]

I'm a St. Louis local as well.  My husband and I purchased in Forest Park Southeast and we are thrilled with the location.  Property values are on an upward trend and we were able to get a great deal on a 3 family.  I think the city proper is worthy of consideration, there are many neighborhoods that are safe, fun and reasonably priced.  I'm 27 and I rented all over the area before buying and wasn't a fan of Kirkwood, I didn't find many people my age (early 20's at that time) it felt like a place to live when you settled down to have kids.  I LOVED Maplewood though, its STL county but right at the edge of the city so you can still feel connected.  Best of luck, feel free to message me if I can be of any help :)