Best city to begin investing
Member since 2025 · 5 posts · 8 votes
Best city to begin investing
Most Popular Reply
Arn CenedellaPro Member
Rental Property Investor · Greenville, SC · Member since 2008 · 786 posts · 1k+ votesAs a newbie investor with limited capital, I’d invest close to home.
Invest in areas you know well.
I’ve been in the RE industry since 1978 and people always ask me:
What’s the best market to invest in?
My answer is: Invest in the market you know best.
Within Dayton, there surely are decent neighborhoods to invest in. Pick one that is improving, homes being renovated and flipped, vacant storefronts being turned into cool coffee shops etc.
Good luck.
34 Replies
- 1yJoe VilleneuvePro MemberPlymouth, MI · Member since 2013 · 13k+ posts · 19k+ votesSpecifically, what research results told you these were two good cities to invest in?
Quote from @Jenna Schulze:
Hi! I am starting to become involved in real estate investing and I am looking between two cities in Ohio to purchase my first property (hopefully a duplex). Through my research, it says that Cleveland and Toledo are both good options for real estate investing. Which one is better? Is there a city that's better than both of these in Ohio? I do need a property that is not very expensive, which is why I have been looking into Clevland due to their low selling prices and high appreciation rates.
- 1yBreeya JohnsonPro MemberReal Estate Consultant · Austin, TX · Member since 2021 · 36 posts · 21 votes
Hi! Congratulations on starting your real estate investing journey—that’s such an exciting step! While I haven’t invested in Cleveland or Toledo myself, I’ve heard both cities offer interesting opportunities for new investors due to their affordability and rental demand.
When deciding between the two, have you considered what kind of tenant base you’d like to attract and how the job markets or local amenities in each city might support that? Also, beyond property prices, which city aligns better with your long-term goals—whether it’s cash flow, appreciation, or a mix of both?
I’m excited to see where this journey takes you—both options sound promising!
- Member since 2025 · 5 posts · 8 votes1y
Quote from @Joe Villeneuve:
Specifically, what research results told you these were two good cities to invest in?Quote from @Jenna Schulze:
Hi! I am starting to become involved in real estate investing and I am looking between two cities in Ohio to purchase my first property (hopefully a duplex). Through my research, it says that Cleveland and Toledo are both good options for real estate investing. Which one is better? Is there a city that's better than both of these in Ohio? I do need a property that is not very expensive, which is why I have been looking into Clevland due to their low selling prices and high appreciation rates.
I read it on realestate.com and Ark7. Are these good sources?
- 1yJoe VilleneuvePro MemberPlymouth, MI · Member since 2013 · 13k+ posts · 19k+ votesRead what? What specifically did this site tell you? The numbers with $$$ in front.
Quote from @Jenna Schulze:
Quote from @Joe Villeneuve:
Specifically, what research results told you these were two good cities to invest in?Quote from @Jenna Schulze:
Hi! I am starting to become involved in real estate investing and I am looking between two cities in Ohio to purchase my first property (hopefully a duplex). Through my research, it says that Cleveland and Toledo are both good options for real estate investing. Which one is better? Is there a city that's better than both of these in Ohio? I do need a property that is not very expensive, which is why I have been looking into Clevland due to their low selling prices and high appreciation rates.
I read it on realestate.com and Ark7. Are these good sources?
- Wholesaler · RVA | BKNY | Seattle · Member since 2025 · 21 posts · 8 votes1y
Based off what you are looking for, I would highly suggest VA or GA, Specifically, the Atlanta area. Virginia has wholesaling restrictions, but no investor ownership restrictions. Both Richmond and Atlanta are booming cities with multiple known colleges hubbed in the center. There are multiple fix & flips All around both areas from pre-foreclosures to prior swatted homes. The asking prices are usually low and have high potential for a more more than average return. They are gentrifying , both cities heavily and consistently. Tampa is also booming due to the hurricane, but has a higher ticket on properties.
- 1yJoe VilleneuvePro MemberPlymouth, MI · Member since 2013 · 13k+ posts · 19k+ votesArk7 looks like a partnership platform. I see no value in it for evaluation.
Quote from @Jenna Schulze:
Quote from @Joe Villeneuve:
Specifically, what research results told you these were two good cities to invest in?Quote from @Jenna Schulze:
Hi! I am starting to become involved in real estate investing and I am looking between two cities in Ohio to purchase my first property (hopefully a duplex). Through my research, it says that Cleveland and Toledo are both good options for real estate investing. Which one is better? Is there a city that's better than both of these in Ohio? I do need a property that is not very expensive, which is why I have been looking into Clevland due to their low selling prices and high appreciation rates.
I read it on realestate.com and Ark7. Are these good sources?
Realestate.com has always been a good site for accessing properties, but they do a poor job of evaluation. They evaluate mostly as a RE Agent would, selling to a homeowner. Those are very different evaluations for what a RE Investor needs. - Member since 2025 · 5 posts · 8 votes1y
What websites do you suggest to get good information?
- Real Estate Agent · Columbus, OH · Member since 2018 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes1y
Quote from @Jenna Schulze:
Hi! I am starting to become involved in real estate investing and I am looking between two cities in Ohio to purchase my first property (hopefully a duplex). Through my research, it says that Cleveland and Toledo are both good options for real estate investing. Which one is better? Is there a city that's better than both of these in Ohio? I do need a property that is not very expensive, which is why I have been looking into Clevland due to their low selling prices and high appreciation rates.
Hi Jenna, out of those two cities, I personally favor Cleveland. I own about 16 units in Cleveland. The cashflow is somewhat similar, but Cleveland has a bit more going on, and I believe the growth will be better than in Toledo. I would be very careful about what neighborhoods you invest in, though; Cleveland has some serious war zones.
- 1yNicholas L.Pro MemberFlipper/Rehabber · Pittsburgh · Member since 2018 · 6k+ posts · 5k+ votes
I think I know what you're going to say, but I'll ask anyway... can you invest where you live, or at least closer?
I wouldn't pick a random market far away based solely on statistics or numbers. I'd pick a market close by, or that you have a strong personal connection to, or that you visit often.
For example, these investors bought properties that "weren't very expensive," or at least didn't look that way:
https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/12/topics/1215726-break...
https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/963/topics/1195280-expe...
https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/48/topics/1137397-balti...
- 1yJimmy LieuBusiness MemberReal Estate Agent · Columbus, OH · Member since 2019 · 3k+ posts · 2k+ votesHi Jenna! I would suggest also checking out Columbus OH. While entry prices are a bit higher than Cleveland/Toledo, we've got strong job growth, population growth, and great macroeconomics overall. We're still seeing deals here that have positive cash flow and appreciation potential. Right now, my best advice is to determine first your exact investment strategy (long-term appreciation? cash flow? both?). Happy to send over some resources regarding the Columbus Ohio market and why it's a great market to invest into.
Quote from @Jenna Schulze:
Hi! I am starting to become involved in real estate investing and I am looking between two cities in Ohio to purchase my first property (hopefully a duplex). Through my research, it says that Cleveland and Toledo are both good options for real estate investing. Which one is better? Is there a city that's better than both of these in Ohio? I do need a property that is not very expensive, which is why I have been looking into Clevland due to their low selling prices and high appreciation rates.
Jimmy Lieu, Red 1 Realty4.9121 Reviews - 1ySamuel DioufBusiness MemberReal Estate Agent · Columbus & Cleveland, OH · Member since 2023 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
Hey Jenna, Cleveland is a great stable market that has a low barrier to entry and high cash-flow.
Cleveland currently has one of the lowest price/rent ratios in the Nation, with the average home price being $107k and the average rent being $1,416/Mo.
One thing to really keep in mind when investing in high cash-flowing markets is to make sure that you are working with a team that can give the right insight and guidance on the different neighborhoods.
Reafco - Samuel Diouf528 Reviews - 1yJorge VazquezBusiness MemberReal Estate Broker · Tampa, FL · Member since 2017 · 1k+ posts · 695 votes
Within my 20 years of experience, I'd highly recommend looking into Central Florida, especially areas like Tampa, Holiday, New Port Richey, Port Richey, Seffner, and Lakeland. These markets offer a great mix of affordability, strong rental demand, and steady appreciation. Plus, the population growth and job market around Tampa keep driving rental stability, making it a solid choice for both cash flow and long-term equity. If you’re thinking of investing, I’d say Florida’s climate and landlord-friendly policies give it a real edge over many Midwest markets! Let me know if you need more insights—this area has been my focus for years!
Graystone Investment Group517 Reviews - Developer · Moscow Idaho · Member since 2024 · 224 posts · 143 votes1y
I am new to bigger Pockets, But I have been buying real estate for a 34 years. I would not invest in either. Both have populations that are declining. You are dealing with people who have to live there not people who want to. I think you will get little to no appreciation long term. Dealing with low income tenants is much more difficult. It really sucks to kick out single moms who have not paid rent in 6 months when they are crying in court. I would invest in a fund or find partners in place that are growing. Economics matter: Market trends and supply and demand. I think as people are able to choose to work places that have better weather places like Cleavland will continue to decline. Also consider Crime rate. All these will effect long term appreciation and rents.
- 1yArn CenedellaPro MemberRental Property Investor · Greenville, SC · Member since 2008 · 786 posts · 1k+ votes
As a newbie investor with limited capital, I’d invest close to home.
Invest in areas you know well.
I’ve been in the RE industry since 1978 and people always ask me:
What’s the best market to invest in?
My answer is: Invest in the market you know best.
Within Dayton, there surely are decent neighborhoods to invest in. Pick one that is improving, homes being renovated and flipped, vacant storefronts being turned into cool coffee shops etc.
Good luck.
- Developer · Member since 2024 · 39 posts · 12 votes1y
Quote from @Jenna Schulze:
Hi! I am starting to become involved in real estate investing and I am looking between two cities in Ohio to purchase my first property (hopefully a duplex). Through my research, it says that Cleveland and Toledo are both good options for real estate investing. Which one is better? Is there a city that's better than both of these in Ohio? I do need a property that is not very expensive, which is why I have been looking into Clevland due to their low selling prices and high appreciation rates.
Both Cleveland and Toledo can be great options for starting real estate investing, especially if you're looking for affordable properties. Cleveland often stands out for its strong appreciation potential, while Toledo is known for steady cash flow opportunities. It depends on your goals—if you're focused on growth, Cleveland might be the better choice, but if you want consistent rental income, Toledo could work well. Other cities like Akron or Dayton in Ohio might also be worth exploring for affordable properties and good returns. - 1yWale LawalBusiness MemberReal Estate Broker · Houston | Dallas | Austin, TX · Member since 2018 · 5k+ posts · 2k+ votes
Why don't you start from your backyard? Investing in "Cheap" cities are not always cheap on the long run. Trust me, I have been there.
I suggest you try to House hack in cities that you are already familiar with and have some connection with.
Hire a great investor agent in that market and ask them all your questions and concerns.
That I believe is the best way to get personalized advice tailored to your goals and lifestyle.
You giving out Cleeveland and Toledo on your post will only attract biased opinions and advise.
Only you know what you truly like, want, and can deal with.
As Nicolas said, read this post and comments and hope that gives you a new perspective.
https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/12/topics/1215726-break...
https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/963/topics/1195280-expe...
https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/48/topics/1137397-balti...
Goodluck and keep us posted.
NETWORTH BUILDERS5236 Reviews - Investor · Member since 2024 · 13 posts · 8 votes1y
Hi Jenna, I have personally invested since 2011 in Cincinnati- Springdale, the suburbs of Cincinnati- Fairfield and West Chester, as well as Cleveland and the suburbs of Cleveland - Oakwood. There are plenty of options available to you and not as far as Cleveland or Toledo. If this is your first venture, your presence at the property will be very important, there is a learning curve, factor in your travel time and other commitments. I would be happy to connect to discuss further.
- Realtor · Cleveland, OH · Member since 2023 · 340 posts · 215 votes1y
Hi, welcome and yes, Ohio is a great place to invest in real estate. Please feel free to reach out with any questions regarding the Ohio real estate market. Best Wishes!
- Real Estate Agent · Atlanta, GA · Member since 2020 · 416 posts · 233 votes1y
Jenna - hope you are well!
What are your goals, what is your current living situation, and where do you live? Lots of the time, newer investors will be better served by house hacking in the market they live in before branching out for other investments. Cleveland and Toledo are solid cashflow markets from my understanding - however, if you're in a HCOL area that cashflow may not move the needle for you.
Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions - always happy to help however I can! - 1yDave PoeppelmeierBusiness MemberRealtor · Maumee, OH · Member since 2015 · 491 posts · 722 votes
Hi Jenna, welcome to Real Estate Investing! I'm an investor and Realtor in Toledo, and yes, it's a solid cash flow market up here, but I will echo what others have said and why not invest in Dayton? From what I have heard, Dayton is a similar market, and you will ALWAYS save money by investing locally by not needing to hire a Property Manager (yet). You can manage your own properties, which I think you need to do as a new investor to learn what it actually takes to run a cash flowing property. I would find a Realtor there who is an Investor themselves so they can help you identify properties that will work as an investment, not as a commission check for themselves. Let me know if you have any other questions, and best of luck to you!
Keller Williams Citywide | Dave Poeppelmeier534 Reviews - Real Estate Agent · Long Island · Member since 2018 · 88 posts · 38 votes1y
Hi Jenna, I would consider investing closer to home. Try to more research on properties you could at least get to. They are certainly around and people do not necessarily talk about them as often. If you do decide to invest in either of these two cities, make sure to research the area where you are purchasing the home. The quality of your tenant is just as important as the investment you make. Sometimes paying a premium on a home also guarantees a higher demand in the neighborhood and with that may come a higher demand for a rental as well. My advice is just to do more research and really get to know the area that you decide to buy in.
- Real Estate Broker · Cleveland Dayton Cincinnati Toledo Columbus & Akron, OH · Member since 2013 · 31k+ posts · 20k+ votes1y
Quote from @Jenna Schulze:
Hi! I am starting to become involved in real estate investing and I am looking between two cities in Ohio to purchase my first property (hopefully a duplex). Through my research, it says that Cleveland and Toledo are both good options for real estate investing. Which one is better? Is there a city that's better than both of these in Ohio? I do need a property that is not very expensive, which is why I have been looking into Clevland due to their low selling prices and high appreciation rates.
If you end up in Cleveland you'll want to read The Ultimate Guide to Grading Cleveland Neighborhoods to give yourself an in depth idea of the market. However, you're in Dayton so I don't see why you'd want to invest a few hours up north when you could just buy the same stuff right in your backyard. The risk increases the further you go from home, so I'd just stay home if I were you. - Akron, OH · Member since 2024 · 101 posts · 78 votes1y
As others have stated, stay close to home. You have a similar market all around you already.
- Member since 2025 · 1 post · 1 vote1yI don't like States that people- in general- are moving away from. I prefer new Orleans, for example.
Quote from @Jenna Schulze:
Hi! I am starting to become involved in real estate investing and I am looking between two cities in Ohio to purchase my first property (hopefully a duplex). Through my research, it says that Cleveland and Toledo are both good options for real estate investing. Which one is better? Is there a city that's better than both of these in Ohio? I do need a property that is not very expensive, which is why I have been looking into Clevland due to their low selling prices and high appreciation rates.
- 1yJonathan SmallPro MemberInvestor · Suwanee, GA · Member since 2020 · 182 posts · 151 votes
@Jenna Schulze It's great you're getting into real estate investing! Cleveland and Toledo are indeed often discussed as potentially good markets in Ohio, but "better" depends heavily on your specific investment strategy and risk tolerance. Here's a breakdown to consider:
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Cleveland: @Zeke Liston You're right, Cleveland often boasts lower purchase prices, making entry easier. However, be cautious about focusing solely on low prices. Look deeper into the specific neighborhoods within Cleveland. Some areas have higher crime rates and lower tenant quality, which can lead to more management headaches and higher vacancy rates. The "high appreciation rates" you mention should be verified with recent data and be specific to the neighborhoods you're targeting. Some areas may appreciate, while others stagnate or even decline. @Samuel Diouf I agree it is a stable market with low barrier to entry.
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Toledo: Toledo generally has even lower property values than Cleveland in some areas, but similar to Cleveland, you'll need to do thorough due diligence on specific neighborhoods. Toledo's economy has been more reliant on manufacturing, so understanding local economic trends is crucial.
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Beyond Cleveland and Toledo: You asked about other Ohio cities. Consider these factors:
- Columbus: @Jimmy Lieu is right about strong job growth. While likely more expensive than Cleveland or Toledo, Columbus has a more diverse and robust economy, driven by government, education (Ohio State University), and healthcare. This can lead to more stable rental demand. However, higher prices mean potentially lower cash flow.
- Cincinnati: Similar to Columbus, Cincinnati has a more diverse economy than Toledo and parts of Cleveland. It's also seeing revitalization in certain areas, which can be attractive for investors. Again, expect higher prices than your initial targets.
- Smaller Cities: Don't completely overlook smaller cities or towns with strong local economies (e.g., a strong university or a growing industry). These can sometimes offer good value and less competition from large investors.
Key Questions to Ask Yourself:
- to @Joe Villeneuve point...what research are you looking at.
Cash Flow vs. Appreciation: Are you primarily looking for immediate cash flow (rental income exceeding expenses) or are you betting on long-term appreciation? - Property Management: Are you planning to self-manage or hire a property manager? This will impact your costs and time commitment.
- Risk Tolerance: How much risk are you comfortable with? Lower-priced properties in less desirable areas often come with higher risk. @Arn Cenedella and @Nicholas L. makes a good point about investing in a area where you live or an area you know well. It is not always about stats.
Recommendations:
- Neighborhood-Level Research: Don't just look at city-wide data. Focus on specific neighborhoods within each city. Look at crime rates, school quality, vacancy rates, and rental demand in those areas.
- Talk to Local Real Estate Professionals: Connect with real estate agents, property managers, and other investors who are active in the specific areas you're considering. They can provide valuable insights.
- Run the Numbers: Create detailed financial projections for each property you're considering. This should include potential rental income, expenses (including property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and potential vacancy), and your expected return on investment. @Jorge Vazquez, would insurance make Central Florida cash flow a lot less.
Starting with duplexes is a great strategy. Good luck with your investing journey!
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