Lawndale, Los Angeles - Thoughts?

Question

Can't quite get my head wrapped around Lawndale.

It is very well located - bordering both Redondo and Torrance which are affluent neighbourhoods, and it isn't particularly a big area, so I would have expected it to be perhaps more popular with the 'overspill' from the beach towns who can no longer afford it - but it appears that is far from desirable for home buyers (plenty of renters) despite property values shooting up last year or so. Anyone from LA have any strong views on this area?

Joey Dwyer · Answer

@Michael White

I agree. Lawndale has gotten better but it's the school district that's holding it back. Densely populated with duplexes , apartments, narrow streets and bad parking situation. But I think it's great for starter homes or triplexes or duplexes.Matt R. North Redondo was a little sketchy. I still see some parts here in need of a clean up. Builders are buying up lots for 700k , building 2 homes and selling each one for a million each. No signs of slowing down.

April A. · Answer

I own a 4-plex on the border of Lawndale/Hawthrone. I agree, it's the schools. Most Lawndale/Hawthorne residents try to get a waiver to get their kids into the neighboring El Segundo school district. But I get alot of semi retired applicants. Alot of applicant work at LAX or Department of Defense. The average age of my tenants is 62. Nice & Quiet!

Alan R. · Answer

Hi. New to BP so coming in late to this one. However your question hits home with me as I've thought the same thing. I have clients that are investors in that area and have done well. Certainly more blue collar. I decided with my own property to buy in North Redondo. Specifically the El Nido neighborhood. It's not zoned for multi family (only single family homes) and its directly south of lawndale. Yes you pay more in Redondo but I think the appreciation in North Redondo is better bang for your buck because of the schools. The spill over effect also applied and I think still does to North Redondo from nearby south Redondo, hermosa beach, and Manhattan beach. I guess I still see lawndale as an opportunity but if you can afford to go a little smaller but get a toehold in North Redondo I think you will be rewarded.

Michael White · Answer

Cheers for the input people

Michael White · Answer

Thanks guys - just thinking medium term strategy re potentially purchasing a multi-family with FHA loan next year as first property and as mentioned, it appears the last relatively affordable area.

Manolo D. · Answer

Its still an expensive place. I am doing some rehab there right now, well, one of my guys are. nothing much to say, if theres more activity, maybe it will improve. i hear there is a lot of rehabs going on at lawndale, never paid much attention.

Matt R. · Answer

Well that should about cap off North Redondo then...Lawndale here we come!

Matt R. · Answer

You got to figure it is going to improve over time. With prices the way they are ...it is out with the old and in with the new style. Heck, North Redondo was a little sketchy back in the day.

Matt R. · Answer

I think it is decent. The weak spot might be the schools. It is pretty much the last relatively affordable option left in the South Bay, Good luck with your search!

Lawndale, Los Angeles - Thoughts?

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