All Forum Posts by: Gene Hacker

Welcome @Fernando Ferrel II!  Bakersfield is one of the few areas in California where cashflow is still possible.  Inventory is very low so it can hard to put together deals but it is still possible. If you want to network and learn from other locals, check out local meetups. I host a meetup for Bakersfield investors.  Right now it is on zoom but we used to meet at Rusty's pizza.  Hopefully we can do that again soon.  

I have had good luck working with ROSA ACOSTA - Escrow Officer at The Escrow Spectrum, Inc, 

661-567-2318

She has worked with us on escrows with assignments paid out.  Thanks Gene

Many SoCal investors have chosen Bakersfield for cashflow rentals. Prices are up but so are rents. Bakersfield is growing so and for now supply is not keeping up with demand.  Building is really ramping up so they may overdue it and overshoot on the supply side but that would be a ways out.   

My understanding is that you don't need a permit for fences 6ft or less in height.  

From my experience, fences may add a little value but not enough to offset the cost. My experience is not specific to the 93307 zip code.

@Troy Smith, talking with the local building department would be a great first step.  Let them know what you want to do and I am sure they could give you some insight into possible issues you could face.  

@Chad Weston, yea Lake Isabella area can be a really fun place to visit, especially when the river comes up in the spring for rafting and kayaking.  Are you family members doing short term rentals with it? 

Welcome.  Bakersfield is a growth story.  Cashflow is still possible but it is not as easy to find as it was a few years ago. I host a free meetup for investors in Bakersfield or interested in Bakersfield.  It is the third Thursday of each month and with the covid thing, it is currently on zoom.  Message if you would like to join on.  

I have investments in areas that have had large wild fires.  

There can be opportunity if home prices support new construction prices. 

The can be issues with cleaning up the land, particularly if the home was older and had asbestos materials.  

The other issue in small towns that lost a lot of homes is that there can be a shortage of builders/subs in the area. 

I have seen new construction between $155/ft to $200/ft recently. It can be very hard to get a contractor/subs/materials as there is a pretty major building boom right now.  

As far as where to start...Building has a ton of pit falls. With no experience at all, you may be best off hiring a general contractor that can complete your project from start to finish.

@Marc A. Thurston, Welcome!  I have rentals in the Kern Valley so it always good to meet other nearby investors. Is your multifamily building in Bakersfield?