All Forum Posts by: Kasey Hardt

Hickory, North Carolina, has been experiencing significant growth, making it an area worth watching for real estate investors. With ongoing economic development, infrastructure improvements, and an expanding rental market, the city presents a variety of investment opportunities.

Economic & Business Growth

• Business Expansions: Companies like Steel Warehouse Company are investing millions into new facilities, bringing jobs and increasing housing demand.
• Infrastructure Investments: A $40M bond referendum has led to over $115M in urban improvements, including business parks, fiber internet expansion, and enhanced transportation.
• New Commercial Developments: Restaurants, retail businesses, and entertainment venues are contributing to Hickory’s revitalization.

Rental Market & Investment Potential

• Diverse Rental Strategies: Investors can explore long-term rentals, mid-term corporate housing, and short-term vacation rentals.
• House Hacking Opportunities: With relatively affordable home prices, investors can take advantage of house hacking—living in one part of the property while renting out another to offset costs.
• Growing Demand: New businesses, infrastructure, and educational institutions are increasing demand for rental properties.

Colleges & Universities

• Appalachian State University – Hickory Campus: Opened in Fall 2023, this campus is bringing students, faculty, and staff to the area, driving demand for student and faculty housing.
• Lenoir-Rhyne University: A well-established university in Hickory that contributes to the need for long-term rental housing.

Outdoor & Quality of Life Improvements

• New Multi-Use Trail Systems: Hickory has expanded its greenways and bike trails, improving walkability and outdoor recreation options.
• Access to Nature & Parks: The city’s investment in outdoor spaces enhances its appeal to residents and visitors alike.

With its mix of business growth, infrastructure upgrades, and an expanding rental market, Hickory is positioning itself as a strong option for investors looking for opportunities in North Carolina.

Have you expanded to this market yet?!

I completely agree with you!  New construction is definitely popping up transitioning a lot of areas within Concord.  We had a client close on a triplex right outside of Downtown Concord with immediate cash flow and (almost) truly turnkey!  We have a lot of clients eyeing Cabarrus and Gaston counties for those smaller multi families.  With the amount of development and growth these areas are awesome to be keeping an eye on

💫 Why Investors Should Pay Attention to Concord, NC 💫

🔥 Strong Growth: Concord has seen consistent population growth, fueled by its affordability and proximity to Charlotte.

🔥 Booming Economy: Home to major employers like NASCAR, Concord Mills, and the Charlotte Motor Speedway, the area attracts steady rental demand.

🔥 Diverse Investment Options: Investors can capitalize on long-term rentals, house hacking, and short-term stays catering to tourists and professionals.

🔥 Affordability Compared to Charlotte: With lower home prices and property taxes than Charlotte, Concord offers higher cash flow potential for investors.

🔥 Development & Infrastructure: Ongoing city improvements and projects, such as those around Gibson Mill, are increasing property values.


✨ Investor Takeaway✨

Concord is a prime location for buy-and-hold investors, house hackers, and those looking to benefit from short-term rentals near major attractions 😍

With continued growth and development, it presents a strong opportunity for appreciation and rental income 💰

Hey Maranda! For our clients we have found that if we can focus on those zip codes with ROI of 7% or higher or RTP of 15 or lower, we have a higher probability of finding positive COC. This said, I think its very important to be aware of the surrounding areas in terms of projected growth and developments to help plan year 2,3,4, etc. We also have clients that are starting their investment journey with LTR, with eventual plans of furnishing it to MTR and get that 1.5-2x the LTR rent. Definitely a time to be creative and really dig to find the good ones- but they ARE out there :D

As we step into 2025, real estate investors are keeping a close eye on emerging markets with strong returns. Two standout locations in North Carolina—Gastonia (28052) and Kannapolis (28081)—continue to offer solid investment potential. Let’s dive into the latest stats and what they mean for investors.

Gastonia (28052) – High ROI & Affordability

• Return on Investment (ROI): 8%
• Rent-to-Price Ratio (RTP): 12.38
• Average Price per Sq. Ft.: $177

Gastonia remains a stronghold for investors looking for affordability paired with steady returns. With an 8% ROI and an RTP of 12.38, this market is well-positioned for rental income generation. The average price per square foot at $177 makes it an attractive entry point for both new and experienced investors. With ongoing developments, including the Franklin Yards project and FUSE District revitalization, property values and rental demand are expected to rise.

Kannapolis (28081) – RTP & Growing Demand

• Return on Investment (ROI): 7%
• Rent-to-Price Ratio (RTP): 13.30
• Average Price per Sq. Ft.: $198

Kannapolis presents a compelling case for investors with a consistent 7% ROI. The RTP at 13.30 signals strong rental demand, making it a viable option for those looking to maximize cash flow. While the average price per square foot is higher at $198, the city’s economic growth, particularly with industrial projects along the I-85 corridor, positions it as a strong long-term investment.

Key Takeaways for Investors

1. Gastonia offers affordability with strong rental potential, making it ideal for those seeking high ROI at a lower price point.
2. Kannapolis’ RTP and economic expansion suggest long-term appreciation and increased rental demand.
3. Both markets continue to benefit from local development and infrastructure improvements, making them solid choices for 2025 investment strategies.

🔥DEVELOPMENT UPDATE- GASTONIA 🔥

📍 FUSE District (Franklin Urban Sports and Entertainment District) is transforming Gastonia with new residential, commercial, and entertainment spaces!

This 16-acre mixed-use community bridges Downtown Gastonia and the historic Loray Mill District, creating a vibrant live/work/play corridor.

⚾ Franklin Yards-Gastonia- A $26M, 5,000-seat multi-purpose sports and entertainment venue, with future plans for residential, retail, and office spaces.

🍽 Food Hall-Gastonia-Gaston County’s first food hall is in the works! A $10M project repurposing a former grocery store into a dynamic dining and social hub in the heart of FUSE.

🚀 Big things are happening in Gastonia—what are your thoughts on these developments?

*Another Exciting Development in Charlotte*

The Iron District is set to break ground next year (address 905 w morehead st.)

The Iron District's strategic location offers easy connections to Uptown, South End, Wesley Heights, Freedom Drive, Camp Greene, I-77, I-277, and Charlotte Douglas International Airport. The site is accessible via West Morehead Street, South Clarkson Street, South Cedar Street, and Summit Avenue. Future enhancements include the planned Silver Line rail alignment with nearby stops, as well as potential commuter bus services, pedestrian paths, and bike lanes.

The development benefits from proactive rezoning by the city, transitioning the land from industrial to mixed-use urban development. This change facilitates a diverse range of future uses, including office, commercial, residential, and hospitality spaces.

Why Invest Here?
With its strategic location, the Iron District is attracting attention from savvy investors looking to capitalize on Charlotte’s growth. Whether you're eyeing long-term rental properties, MTR Market, or are looking to live here yourself- this area is full of potential.

🌟 December 2024 Top ROI ZIP, 28262 🌟

For the first time ever, only one zip code produced an ROI of 7% or higher!!

#universitycity is an amazing area located in #charlotte with ample developments, entertainment, dining, and other things to do! We have PNC, UNC, and soon to be, Entertainment District!

5+ Exciting Developments

Long Term Rental buzz

Mid Term Rental madness

UNC- home to 30K+ students!

Check out November's top ROI Zip codes in and around Charlotte! We have University area and Gastonia both in the top- again! What makes these areas standout? Entry price point, avg rents, and upcoming developments!

This months zip codes all produced an ROI of 7%! As you can see, Gastonia is consistently making the TOP ROI list, as well as Kannapolis!