$35k row-home as my first rental property purchase..pros and cons

[Robert Garcia]

BP members, living in Baltimore, MD $20 to $50 thousand dollar row-homes are a dime a dozen; their everywhere within Baltimore City limits and are within my price range. I've listened to podcasts where some say stay away while a few others say go for it, low risk. What's everyone's  personal take on this type of investment in a C- neighborhood? Is this something I should consider and look deeper into or keep my distance and look elsewhere? I figure the risk is low considering I'm only into it for such a low amount. Opinions...?

Thanks, 

Rob

[Account Closed]

To be clear...most of baltimore is a bad neighborhood. Bad meaning high property taxes, bad meaning ridiculous water bills, bad meaning crime (yes, its almost everywhere in the city), bad meaning rent court/escrow court bs. Good news, tons of tenants to be had

The way you fix your problems with" bad" neighborhoods is many.

1. Make your house lead free (no more lead liability) costs some depending on your house.
2. Make your house nice. Nice house equals appreciative, quality tenant. Features, finished space, etc.
3. Avoid horrific blocks. (All board ups, garbage everywhere, etc)
4. See number 2. Common phrase i hear from tenants "i dont live on the outside of the house"