Investing in Trenton, NJ?

Question

I'm currently looking to purchase my first property--primarily within the NJ area. This is largely because I have a large network of contractors and handymen in the NJ area.

Through my research I found the low income area like Trenton and Camden are most fitted for investments. I know the crime is horrible in the area but there is train services into NYC and Philly in Trenton.

The numbers make sense but I'm cautious as there are many houses listed for sale compared to a few listed for rent.

Any investors looking in that market? Any advise for a first time investor?

Thank you

Matthew Crivelli · Answer

Trenton is a good market for the BRRR strategy. I have a few investors in Trenton that are very successful at buying run down properties, rehabbing, and renting. Mainly 2-4 units. I would agree, the market is a little soft when it comes to home sales.

Shawn Mcenteer · Answer

Low income + high crime = Second job with minimal ROI

Even if the numbers look good on paper your time will be lost. Best advice I can give for new investors coming in to the market in New Jersey is: If deal looks very good today, its likely a headache tomorrow. If numbers look tight and with little to no ROI, deals tend to look much better year over year. Attracting quality might cost you more upfront but long term gains blow everything else away.

Rob Howard · Answer

I might be wrong, but in 20+ years of doing this - I have never bought anywhere that I couldn't imagine myself living - not "now" but when I was in the "not ready to buy" phase of my life. That has served me very well in my local investment plan.

If the rents support cashflow it's proven out smarter for consistent growth during boom times without the massive pullbacks of challenging times.

Alan Asriants · Answer

Like mentioned here already, if its too good to be true it likely is too good to be true. On paper returns vs real life returns are completely different. Management, non payment of rent, maintenance, etc. will burn your profits. ANd the worst part is that you are stuck holding the bag. Those properties are like a hot potato, you usually don't want to be holding them long. As shawn mentioned you will likely be buying yourself a Job with a small ROI. Real estate investing is about the long term play, putting money into a safe asset that will grow in value. and it is about giving you more time - not taking it from you. Properties in Trenton do not follow that path. Stick to solid locations with high quality tenant class.

Arman Ahmed · Answer

@Aakash Patel

Trenton definitely has some investor activity because of the train access, but the high turnover and crime can make management tricky, especially if you’re new. Since you already have a strong contractor network, that’s a big advantage—it’ll save you time, stress, and money. One thing you might also consider is looking beyond just your backyard. A lot of first-time investors end up branching into the Midwest because the entry costs are lower, rents are stable, and tenant demand is steady. Even if you stick with NJ for your first deal, it’s worth at least comparing markets so you know where your money works hardest.

Benjamin Louie · Answer

Hey @Aakash Patel, great call leaning on your local network, that’s a huge plus when you’re getting started!

Trenton and Camden definitely have their challenges with crime and a ton of homes for sale, but the affordability and train access to NYC and Philly make them pretty interesting from an investment standpoint. I’ve seen some investors do well focusing on the right neighborhoods, especially if you can find decent tenants and keep vacancy low.

The fact that there are way more homes for sale than for rent does raise a flag, though it could mean it’s a bit saturated or folks are just trying to offload properties fast. Definitely dig into the neighborhood vibe, crime stats, and rental demand before jumping in.

For a first timer, I’d say start small, maybe a duplex or triplex if you can swing it. Having good contractors on speed dial will save you headaches.

What kind of properties are you looking at? Multifamily? Single-family? Would love to hear more!

Investing in Trenton, NJ?

Most Popular Reply