6 Under The Radar Cities For Investment in 2015

Real estate is an increasingly attractive way to invest money – Everything from flipping, to wholesaling, income properties, to long term investments. Depending on the neighborhood and economic cycle, real estate can net investors everything from a steady stream of rental income, to huge returns in equity. Areas that show the greatest upside are often historic, near universities, embrace a younger population, and are in proximity to arts and lifestyle opportunities. And in the case of investment hotbeds like Highland Park (a flipper’s paradise near downtown Los Angeles) up and coming areas have one oft-frequented cafe. 

Here are six cities that appear ripe for 2015 investment.

Houston

Much like its Texas brethren Dallas and Austin, Houston is booming. It is the 4th fastest growing city in the U.S., according Forbes. But while the secret’s already out on Austin, Houston remains a bit under the radar. An increase of tech-driven jobs in Texas and Houston’s extensive – but under-appreciated – collection of mid-century modern architecture are likely to draw a new flock of Millennials looking for a hometown with a mix of art, culture, nightlife, and affordable housing. There is tremendous room for growth in the Houston market.

Nashville

Nashville has benefited from national exposure in the last few years. A television show of its own, famous residents like musician Jack White, and the popular Beale Street Music Festival, have made people take a second look at ‘Music City.’ Arts? Check. Nightlife? Check. Like Houston above, home prices in Nashville could serve as the siren call for a weary crop of twenty and thirty-somethings tired of the vertigo-inducing home prices in more traditional metro choices, like San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles. Nashville might just be the ideal market for an investment right now.

Philadelphia

This town of Benjamin Franklin certainly isn’t wanting for history – and neither is it wanting for universities. Universities may not have an obligation necessarily to invest in their neighborhoods, but it is certainly in their best interest; and that is exactly the reason Philadelphia’s Drexel University has launched its civic engagement program in its Mantua neighborhood. The university is investing a lot of money in raising up the neighborhood, not just with respect to its infrastructure, but by literally investing in the individuals that live there. Drexel’s work is likely to bring new development and rising real estate values.

Arlington

Millennials have already started fleeing those more traditional urban centers, for Arlington, Virginia. Arlington has seen an increase of over 80% in Millennials since 2007. Rising in prices in DC and New York have helped this city in the shadow of our nation’s capital realize an entirely new persona. Arlington’s proximity to public transportation and Washington, D.C. make it a great option. If you’re looking for an income property, it’s important to note that these same features will help ensure that area homes retain their value due to continued demand.

Atlanta

With Georgia Tech, Morehouse College, Emory University, Spelman College, and a slew of other colleges, Atlanta has no shortage of institutions for higher learning. And as the hometown of civil rights leader Martin Luther King, it has plenty of history to go around as well. The city has also been making a concerted effort to urbanize and beautify this sprawling metropolis by adding new lines of public transportation and parks. The rapidly changing face of Atlanta makes it an ideal candidate for investment opportunities, but that opportunity may slip away soon as prices are on the rise.

Detroit

It’s no secret the Motor City has seen better days. But that is exactly the reason Detroit offers an opportunity to see growth. Quicken Loans Founder Dan Gilbert just bought up several blocks of downtown with an eye toward progress. Upscale watchmaker and leather goods company Shinola has located its headquarters in Detroit as part of its branding strategy – an attempt to capture the quintessence of Americana. The city wants to come back. Residents are galvanizing efforts. If you’re in it for the long haul, Detroit could be a great investment.