Hazel Green- too far for commuters?

[Richie Thomas]

Hey y'all, I'm an out-of-state investor working with a realtor on my first investment property.  I had initially sent her several listings in Madison proper, but apparently all 3 were already under contract.  She mentioned the market for resale properties is super-hot in Madison right now, and she suggested I check out a certain planned community nearby.   I just checked Google Maps, and apparently the development is in Hazel Green, just off the 431.  I see that makes it about 30 minutes from (for example) Redstone Arsenal, which I know is a major employer.  It's only about 19 min from the big new Facebook Data Center, which doesn't sound too bad to me.  That said, I'm not a local and I'm not sure what commute time most locals are used to.  Would these commute times make my rental unattractive to a local renter?

Also, would y'all agree with my realtor that a new construction home is a viable path forward, considering the competitiveness of the local market?  I do like the idea of buying a home where everything is still under warranty, although the idea of buying something that doesn't exist yet gives me some pause.

[Steve Stinson]

@Richie Thomas @Jessie Kristie There are some builders who will sell to investors and my recent experience has been a $400/$500 actual gross positive monthly cash flow. Of course, your numbers for management fees, CAPEX, etc.. will reduce the gross number. but it should still be positive (CAPEX on a new build should be very low). The area in Hazel Green/Meridianville is close enough to all of the major employers in the county and the schools rate pretty good too. The advantage of using a new build, when available, is a first-come-first-served environment instead of the multiple offer pay over list market in resale product.