Baltimore City ... Should I invest now ?

[Robert Nelson]

Looking at real estate to buy in the DMV area and Baltimore city is very cheap right now. Almost reminds me of what’s going on in Detroit right now. Even though it’s a tough area should I look into buying while its low?

[Michael Krupp]

Hey Robert! So you are interested in Baltimore!? Yes, there are opportunities as prices are relatively inexpensive compared to DC, MD Suburbs of DC, and VA. There are deals in Baltimore city and Baltimore county, as well as surrounding counties. In Baltimore city, you just need to know where you are buying as it is a block by block town. What I mean is that you can find a great block or two surrounded by a very rough block or two in general. There are a variety of neighborhoods and price points even within close proximity. It really depends on whether you want to do rentals or flips, and the price points you are comfortable with. I am an investor as well as a lender and have 17 rentals right now and am adding to that, and do around 10 flips or new builds per year. All my rentals have ARV's of $100k or more as I personally do not want to be in the rougher areas, though some investors do very well with the lower valued properties. It depends on your tolerance and risk level. There is plenty of opportunity, though it is a competitive market. Many new investors have been overpaying for properties, so make sure you are not one of them. Find a couple good realtors that work with investors and a knowledgeable lender or two as well. Do some driving to get to know the areas too. People always wonder if they should invest now or is the market overpriced and should they wait for a downturn. I have found that over time, real estate values go up, so there is no time like now! 5 years from now, you will look back and think I should have bought then. I know I have done that! I also know Baltimore pretty well, so if you need some specific advice, feel free to reach out.