Belton/ Temple = Finally An Area That Cash Flows

[Parker Smith]

I have met several investors recently who have said they have had success in the Belton/ Temple area. Good price points that cash flow (versus the Round Rock/ Georgetown/ North Austin properties I have been looking at).

Wanted to see if there were any agents / professionals familiar with this area that may be able to provide some insight on the growth, jobs, general economic health of this area for real estate investing? 

[Jarrod Weaver]

Having operated in the Temple/Belton/Georgetown/Killeen market for 25+ years now, I'd argue that Bell County is easier to find a positice cash-flow property than in Travis. Not necessarily easy, but possible. The key is to target properties that are 75% or less than the market average. If the market average is $100k - look for houses to buy that are no more than $75k. This can be management intensive but a way to mitigate this issue is to seek senior tenants with fixed incomes.

I'd also recommend spreading your territory to other smaller communities - and not just Bell County. Texas is loaded with rural communities that have been established for 150 years or more. As long as they have a church, bank and school the likelihood of them continuing to be there for the next 50 years is strong. These towns aren't depressed; they're stable. And the only place you will find a livable house you can buy for $50k that will rent for $900/mo.