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Top recommendations for rental property markets in 2024?

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Zoe_99
Joined:
29.12.2019
Posts: 108
Topic Starter
02.01.2025 09:11
I've been saving up for a down payment on my first investment property and I'm finally ready to pull the trigger. With interest rates being what they are, I'm trying to find markets that still offer decent cash flow without being completely overpriced. I've looked into a few spots in the Midwest, but I'm curious if anyone here has had success with secondary markets recently. Are there any specific cities or states you guys are currently bullish on for long-term buy-and-hold strategies? I'd appreciate any insights on areas with good job growth and reasonable entry prices.
18 replies in this topic
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Lara_N
Joined:
11.01.2022
Posts: 61
16.01.2025 22:31
Honestly, I'd steer clear of the coastal hubs right now. The Midwest is still your best bet for cash flow. Look into Indianapolis; the entry prices are still reasonable compared to the rest of the country.
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Iva_R
Joined:
06.07.2024
Posts: 1424
17.01.2025 06:24
In reply to a previous post
I agree with Indy, but check out Columbus, Ohio too. The tech sector growth there is legit and keeps the rental demand high.
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monica_p
Joined:
30.11.2021
Posts: 929
25.01.2025 09:30
Has anyone looked into Pittsburgh? It’s been on my radar for a while now but I'm worried about the aging infrastructure.
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Lara_N
Joined:
24.02.2021
Posts: 167
28.02.2025 16:47
In reply to a previous post
Pittsburgh is solid, but you really need to be careful with the specific neighborhoods there. Some parts are gentrifying fast, while others are still pretty stagnant.
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Iggy_R
Joined:
23.12.2019
Posts: 545
05.03.2025 15:26
I’m personally betting big on Huntsville, Alabama. The defense and aerospace jobs are a massive anchor for the local economy.
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forum_expert
Joined:
10.09.2021
Posts: 877
06.04.2025 00:46
In reply to a previous post
Huntsville is great, but don't sleep on Birmingham! It has a lower barrier to entry and the revitalization of the downtown area is actually starting to pay off for landlords.
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SomeoneSomewhere
Joined:
11.01.2025
Posts: 962
25.05.2025 10:10
The problem with secondary markets is that if the local industry dips, your vacancy rates go through the roof. Stick to places with diverse economies.
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Olivia_T
Joined:
09.09.2023
Posts: 947
28.05.2025 23:51
In reply to a previous post
That’s fair advice, but diversify your risk by picking markets that aren't tied to just one industry. That's why I like the Carolinas.
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monica_p
Joined:
07.05.2025
Posts: 484
21.06.2025 14:17
In reply to a previous post
Check out Greenville, South Carolina. It’s growing like crazy and still feels like a bargain compared to Charlotte or Raleigh.
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wes_55
Joined:
17.12.2023
Posts: 2296
22.07.2025 04:51
Don't ignore the Midwest! Kansas City has been treating me well for the past three years. Steady appreciation and very low drama.
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Master_J
Joined:
30.03.2020
Posts: 885
05.09.2025 09:00
In reply to a previous post
KC is solid, but have you had issues with property management there? Finding a reliable team is the real challenge.
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Zina_P
Joined:
05.10.2024
Posts: 1187
08.09.2025 00:36
I’ve been looking at Oklahoma City. Extremely affordable and the job market is surprisingly robust with the energy sector and new manufacturing plants.
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Vic_S
Joined:
22.02.2025
Posts: 2274
06.01.2026 06:59
In reply to a previous post
I second OKC. It’s one of the few places left where you can actually find a turnkey property that hits the 1% rule.
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simon_v
Joined:
30.06.2024
Posts: 325
17.02.2026 09:56
What about the impact of interest rates on your ROI? Even with good cash flow, the debt service is eating up all the profit right now.
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Selector
Joined:
24.06.2021
Posts: 1314
25.02.2026 06:52
In reply to a previous post
Exactly. I’ve decided to wait until the end of the year to see if the Fed makes any moves. Buying now feels like catching a falling knife in some markets.
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camilo
Joined:
29.03.2021
Posts: 1393
10.03.2026 20:30
Good luck with the search! It’s definitely a tough time to be a first-time investor, but keep your eyes on the numbers, not the hype.
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Phil_G
Joined:
17.08.2021
Posts: 1748
28.03.2026 15:04
In reply to a previous post
If you are doing long-term buy-and-hold, don't overthink the interest rate. You can always refinance later if rates drop, but you can't change the purchase price.
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anon_user
Joined:
30.04.2025
Posts: 2136
11.04.2026 07:19
In reply to a previous post
Solid point. Time in the market beats timing the market, as they say.

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