Class C neighborhoods

[Michael K. Smith]

What are your thoughts on investing in “bad neighborhoods”?

[Erik W.]

Class C isn't bad.  D and F are "bad" and "war zone" respectively.

There is money to be made in all markets.  Just ask the folks who own Rent-a-Centers, convenience stores, and Buy Here, Pay Here car dealerships.  The question is what is your skill set, temperament, and can you deal with the customers?

Remember, we aren't in the housing business....we are in the people business.  Your location and quality will mostly dictate the people to whom you rent.  I have managed exclusively Class C property for 15 years and have great cash flow and some of the best tenants out of the entire lot of lower/middle lower income because I screen very carefully and keep my places clean, safe, and functional.  There are good people who don't have much money: my job is to find the best of them.