Bakersfield Southwest Vs. Northwest

[Roger Leonard]

Hello BP Bakersfield! I need your help distinguishing two parts of town. I am considering investing in a 200K range SF home in either the Southwest/Silver Creek/Oaks area or Northwest/River Lakes/Westlake area of Bakersfield. I have spent the day looking at homes and the areas and they both seem to be great neighborhoods. Can you local homeowners and investors please help me with the key differences in these two parts of town?? What is local perception and why would you prefer one area over the other. Any input you have would be great!