South Bend, Indiana Rental Market

[Nick Wimmel]

Hey BP!

I’ve been seeing people post about the South Bend, Indiana real estate market and have become interested after doing some research. I like the fact that the price points are lower than most other markets and that the city is home to Norte Dame University. Can anyone please share their insight/expertise on the South Bend market? I’m interested in purchasing a rental property and or properties if I can find the right deal.

[Alex Ferraro]

@Nick Wimmel For context, I have 20+ properties in South Bend as well as Chicago. I also live in South Bend. I think the market is great for low price point and subsequent cash flow. It can also be a a good market for appreciation IF you know where the path of progress is.

I disagree about South Bend being on a downward trajectory. I think it was on a downward trajectory ever since Studebaker went out of business 60 years ago, but has clearly been getting better in the last 10 years. Notre Dame has had a lot of involvement in improving the area in the last 15 years, and there is a growing startup community. I also notice a lot of people from Chicago moving into the area (myself included) due to the movement towards remote work, although this is anecdotal evidence. I would encourage you to read the City’s development plans and population statistics. The population is certainly growing, but not at what I would call a rapid pace. There is a lot of new development moving south and west of Notre Dame.

As for the specific neighborhoods - I think you can simply refer to the Trulia crime map as it tends to be pretty accurate. I invest in pretty much all of the neighborhoods, and would be happy to discuss specifics if you’re interested.