Burlington, VT investors

[Jason Burds]

Hey all,

Anyone here have experience investing in Burlington, VT city limits?

For others that aren't specific to the location - Burlington has the main university along with a few other small colleges. It also houses a teaching hospital - the largest in the state. Great rental market with property values rising sharply over the years. The only problem is the regulation the city puts on landlords and is far more tenant friendly.  

Anyone have any thoughts on investing in highly regulated areas?

Thanks.

[Mark H. Porter]

I used to own in Essex junction, Colchester, and Winooski before I started concentrating in Burlington.  I’ve spread investments from a Block from church to a block from campus. Closer to either one and the cap rate gets around 6%.  They’re just too easy to rent.

i also own a few properties in the north end - a 10 unit and an 18 unit.  Both have worked out well but both required quite a bit of reno to get the rents to market.  There are deals to be had, just be patient.  

it will be tougher if you’re looking at duplexes as there are quite a few shoppers.  Get into the quads and larger and there are fewer competitors on both sides.