Lehigh Valley

[Robert Motch]

Hi all,

I am interested in investing in buy and hold SFRs in the Lehigh Valley. Is anyone getting 10% COC returns there outside of the war zones? If so, what towns?

[Korie Apgar]

@Ryan Dalton @Robert Motch

COC returns of 10% or higher is possible but you have to be looking for the deals and sorting through them, many of them. Find a good agent familiar with the area. I would personally stay out of Allentown. Study the comps of sold properties. An agent can run them for you based on many factors, sq ft, SFH vs townhome/semi detached, garage, # of beds, baths, lot size, AP, SP, if there was seller assist which would make the numbers look like the home sold for more than what it really did. The key is to study the market in a particular area and it takes time on your part. Location is everything. East Penn SD, Parkland, Southern Lehigh, Saucon Valley, Palisades are all great school districts. Macungie, Emmaus, Center Valley, Coopersburg, Hellertown, etc. As far as returns, are you willing to do any light rehab (carpets, paint) to get a discount to get those returns you're looking for? Buy and holds in the area are tough with SFH after expenses are paid because of the cash flow factor. You need to get creative and look for foreclosed properties, estate sales, sellers in distress, homes in distress. It is def. possible. You CAN get the returns you're looking for in any area but you have to find the right deal and be patient. Run numbers constantly! I can discuss more if you PM me.