Investors/Realtors Actively Working in Williamsport, PA Area

[Paulette Midgette]

Hello BP,

I am researching buy/hold opportunities in Williamsport, PA and the surrounding area.  If you are an active investor or realtor in the area I would like to hear from you.  Which areas are best for investing; student housing vs. traditional rentals (pros/cons); home appreciation rates (buy for the long haul, or hold for a few years, sell and turn a decent profit); what is the cost of being a landlord (license requirements, inspections, landlord utility responsibility, etc.); management companies...are they present in the area and how good are they; are there different consideration for a 2 unit versus a 3 unit or larger property?

If you currently live or have lived in Williamsport or surrounding area, I would like to hear from you. From my research it appears that Williamsport is a great place.  An urban type area with a small town feel.  It also appears that they are revitalizing and have started to tackle some of their challenges such as attracting new/younger residents and maintaining existing residents.  I see there is an active Business Association and Arts/Cultural community, all good things.  But, what are the continuing challenges that need attention; what is it like to rent in the area (plenty of rentals, tenants have lots to choose from), What do you love about Williamsport and what pains you; basically what is like to live in the area?

I have also been researching Lock Haven, please feel free to give me your impressions of this town as well.

Thank you in advance for helping me with my research.

Paulette