Investor Seeking Advice on Buying a Fourplex in Bakersfield, CA

[Karla Sosa]

Hi BiggerPockets community!

I’m a novice real estate investor currently looking to buy my first small multifamily property (ideally a fourplex) in Bakersfield, California. I’d really appreciate any insight on the local market in 2025 especially:

1. What neighborhoods are considered good vs bad for rentals or long term investment?

2. How is the rental demand currently?

3.  Are there any red flags or hidden gems neighborhoods I should be aware of?

My goal is to find a solid cash flowing property in a stable area to buy and hold, but I’m still learning how to evaluate the Bakersfield market specifically.

Thanks in advance for any advice or tips you can share!

[Gene Hacker]

I used to do inspections in Bakersfield. Many of the older buildings had major issues with deferred maintenance and would require a significant CapEx investment early on.

You can tell good areas from bad from using google street view.  

Generally the west side units were much nicer but the price usually reflects that.  The older units in Oildale, or the East Bakersfield generally needed a lot of work. 

I used to like the idea of investing in Bakersfield as logistic jobs were growing fast but the tariffs add uncertainty.  Oil used to be a big part of the economy but California is moving to shut that down. It is definitely uncertain times.