Kansas City neighborhoods: 66102 and 64127

[Marcel Theisen]

Looking at small multi-families in KC.  Some of the potential deals look like pretty rough neighborhoods (based on crime stats) but would appreciate opinions from people that know KC market. 

Would you steer clear of these areas completely?  I've got a property in C- area in CO so I'm OK with less desirable areas but want to avoid war zones.  

66102: Just off Central Ave around Bethany Park

64127: North of 70 just off Blue Valley Park

 Thanks-

[Sean Tarpenning]

I invest in all parts of Kansas City.  It is not as rough as people think. A C grade property in the Kansas City area is way different than if you were in Michigan or Chicago. We are fortunate not to have a lot of board ups on one street and fortunately any crime that occurs, is not random. The urban core areas are very block by block. Another important factor is the placement of tenants and management of the property.  Providing amenities such as central air, garbage disposal, etc can justify higher rent prices and well-qualified tenants.

Let me know if you decide on these areas, I have a large inventory and run across multi-families often.