easiest/cheapest city to work with for out of state

[Shirley Giraldo]

Hi folks, I currently have a multifamily in upstate New York. I've found the city and utility companies to be really outdated in their notification and payment systems. For example I got a fine for unmowed grass and by the time I received it by mail weeks later, I already had another one!

I'm looking to invest in Indianapolis, Kansas City, Detroit, or Cleveland (still doing research so if you have suggestions/tips please feel free to share.

Which cities are the most efficient and cheapest to work with for out of state investors from a government and utilities standpoint?

[Justin Capps]

@Shirley Giraldo I can only speak for Indianapolis. Most of Indy is covered by two utility providers, Indianapolis Power & Light(electric) and Citizens Energy Group(Gas, Water, and Sewer). I used to really dislike calling into either because I found hold times extremely long but I feel they've really improved that in the last 5 years. I'm hardly ever on hold any more. Both companies have online pay, auto pay, etc. They will make you put down a deposit for your first property but eventually, they drop that. Whatever property management company you choose should be able to handle that on your behalf if you didn't want to. I have found some City offices difficult to work with, permitting especially...but, I bet if I was a contractor that pulled permits frequently, it wouldn't be as large of a hassle.