What do you think of Clayton County in ATL?

[Ashley Sanchez]

Sooo I found a MFR Duplex in Clayton County off Old National in College Park that I liked. However, after reading many forum threads posts, I saw that many investors stay away from this county. I'm a newbie to this area so unfamiliar with the back happenings of what has caused many to stay away. My thinking is if seasoned investors stay away then this may not be a good buy for a newbie investor seeking to 'house hack' to consider as my first property. Your feedback is welcomed!

[Kiet N.]

I lived in Clayton County (ClayCo is the nickname down here) 12 years before moved up to Downtown Atl.

After the school system lost its accreditation forcing the residents fleeing to other counties, the housing crash finished with a KO on the real estate market.

I took a gamble, cashed out my retirement acct, and paid cash for 5 doors down here. All was rental ready with minimal cosmetic repairs. They are now my cash cows.

Yes, some peoples scare of ClayCo, but that makes less competitions for investors who understand the local market.

In general, you can get a decent SFH 3-4BR / 2BA for $50-100K - with a rent rate $800-$1200. many older homes is all brick.

Most populated areas (older homes, high demand rental, closer to downtown Atl) : Forest Park, Morrow, Riverdale, Jonesboro 

Most expensive: Lake Spivey

Most rural (newer homes or homes w acreage): Hampton, Lovejoy, Rex, Ellenwood