Maryland Investing buy and hold

[Brian Hart]

Hello friends, Its Brian here and I was wondering if anyone could give some insight on the top things they value when searching for an area to invest in?

Thanks in advance

Brian

[Andrew Michael]

Hi @Brian Hart and Welcome to BP. 

This is a pretty loaded question but I will take a general stab at it.  I think first and foremost you need to identify why you are investing, your strategies, and your niche.  For example, are you investing for long term wealth or short term gains.  Are you more concerned about cash flow or are you looking for longer term appreciation plays.  Are you looking to wholesale, flip, buy and hold, etc.  These are all general questions to consider.  

I am guessing that your question is more aimed at what makes a suitable investment market.  Again this can depend on your goals but I will throw out some of the things I look for.  First and foremost I like to see a strong economy with a solid work force.  Any place where there are many jobs available is usually a good indicator that the economy is doing well and will continue to grow.  Schools are another big factor for me.  Families will often make housing decisions based on the best opportunity for their children.  If you are investing in an area with a strong school system the chances of selling your rehab project or filling your rental property are that much stronger.  Another thing I like to follow is big box stores.  This is more for emerging markets but you can bet if Wal-Mart, Home Depot, Bed Bath and Beyond, etc are buying stores in a particular area it is most likely poised for growth.  This leads me to my last factor.  How many homes are projected to be built in that area?  If it is already built up like DC for example how much renovation and development projects are happening or in the works.  All of these factors are good indicators that the economy is strong and on an upward trend.  

I am sure you will get plenty of other great answers from people.  Over time you will develop your own as well.  At the end of the day, if the numbers work for you and you understand the investment your in the right place.