Anyone have experience in Southbridge MA?

[Robert Cook]

Hi there, I am from Worcester MA and looking for my first deal. I'm looking for deals in the city and some surrounding towns but reasonably priced homes in Southbridge MA keep coming to my attention. I'm wondering if anyone has experience here and could tell me a little more about what investing in the area is like? I'm familiar with the town, as I work for the hospital here, but haven't considered it from an investing standpoint because I know the area isn't super great. Looking for duplexes or triplexes in which I plan to "house hack" and live in one unit for a short time. I'm not crazy about living in SB but as I said, I keep seeing pretty reasonable deals so I'm considering it. Just looking for some advice. Thanks!

[Stacy Gilman]

I currently reside in my primary residence in Southbridge and am also looking to purchase investment property in the town. I've lived there for over a year and from the research I've done one of the big things to consider about Southbridge is the current state of its school system. I am told that is one of the big drivers in Massachusetts and unfortunately Southbridge does not have a reputation as a stellar school system. I am not quite sure why that is but, its a common theme. I have had some limited interaction with their police force due to accidents in front of my house and incidents down the street and I am less than impressed with their level of service. I am a former police officer and set the bar high and I am not at all pleased with them. I think if investors purchased in Southbridge and steadily raise the rents we could drive out the less desirables. I have had a challenge attracting private investors into Southbridge. Best of luck and feel free to contact me any time!