This is my first post on biggerpockets. I was wondering if anyone is near the Greensboro markets that might have ideas of where they are currently looking for investment properties for long term rentals. I live closer to Winston Salem than Greensboro so if anyone has advice please share!
Property Manager · Eastern Region, US · Member since 2023 · 39 posts · 16 votes
8mo
Hi Cameron! Welcome to investing in NC! I actually *just* addressed a question like this the other day here so I'll drop that response here again:
"If you’re only going to pick one OOS market, I’d zoom out a bit before locking onto a specific city.
Winston-Salem and Greensboro can both work, but they’re very neighborhood-driven and the outcomes vary a lot depending on asset class and execution. You’ll see cash flow on paper in both, but the difference between a “fine” deal and a headache deal can be a couple of blocks.
A few high-level thoughts:
Cash flow vs appreciation: In both markets, cash flow tends to come more from buying right than from rent growth. Appreciation is steadier and slower. Think about fundamentals, not high-return fireworks.
Tenant demand: Solid blue-collar and workforce rental demand, but you want to be careful about chasing low price points. Cheaper doesn’t always mean easier or more profitable over time.
Property type: Clean, well-maintained SFRs in stable neighborhoods tend to be the least operationally painful, especially if you’re managing remotely.
In reality, success here will hinge less on the city name and more on your local team: property manager, insurance broker, and boots-on-the-ground insight.
If your goal is to own in one place and scale over time, I’d spend time narrowing your buy box by neighborhood and property profile, not just city. Travel helps, but pairing that with local data and honest operational feedback is what really moves the needle.
I work in RE mgmt in several cities (rentals) around the area, more than happy to provide more insight into what I am seeing if needed."
Happy to send over my thoughts on various buy areas if needed. Cheers!