Best Neighborhoods To Invest In Buffalo, NY

Buffalo, New York, is becoming a big deal for property investment, grabbing interest from all over¹. The city is known for its awesome downtown and many neighborhoods, each offering lots of amenities for both businesses and homes². It’s also famous for a strong economy and diverse houses, making it a top pick for investors¹.

The real estate scene in Buffalo has neighborhoods that stand out for their unique qualities and investment returns³. Places like Elmwood Village, Allentown, North Buffalo, and Hertel Avenue are growing fast, making them great for investing³. These areas fit different investor needs, whether you prefer to buy and hold or fix and flip².

Neighborhoods like Black Rock, Larkinville & First Ward, and West Side are good for finding deals with properties that need work but have lots of potential¹. The East Side is great for those looking into Section 8 investing due to its high cash flow and yield options¹. Doing your homework is key to smart investing in Buffalo’s lively real estate market³.

Buffalo is the #4 city for cash flow, highlighting its value for investments¹. By studying the local trends and picking the right strategy, investors can find big opportunities in Buffalo¹. For deeper insights on investing in Buffalo’s real estate, check out this detailed guide.

Key Takeaways

• Buffalo is ranked #4 among top cash-flowing cities.
• Distinct neighborhoods offer varied investment opportunities, from buy-and-hold to fix-and-flip.
• Black Rock and East Side are particularly notable for affordable properties and high potential returns.
• Elmwood Village and Allentown stand out for their rental markets and historical charm.
• Thorough research and due diligence are crucial for successful real estate investments in Buffalo.

Introduction to Buffalo’s Real Estate Market

Buffalo, NY, is now a prime spot for real estate investors. It showcases a booming market and remarkable economic revival. The city has breathed new life into downtown areas, offering a host of neighborhood benefits. Buffalo’s real estate progress shows how the city is changing.

The Growth and Revitalization

Property values in Buffalo keep rising. Elmwood Village, for example, has seen its property prices grow, marking it as a leading area for investment². It’s not only about one area. Hertel Avenue has transformed into a lively commercial area. It’s filled with shops, eateries, and entertainment spots that have grown too².

Buffalo’s housing market is also on the upswing. By February 2024, the median home price hit about $180,000. That’s a 20% jump from the year before⁴. This increase suggests a strong market, with tight supply and lots of offers pushing competition⁴.

Reasons to Consider Investing in Buffalo

The investment potential in Buffalo is significant. Compared to bigger markets, Buffalo’s real estate is more varied and accessible. The city’s buyers are looking for homes ready to move into. This trend has pushed up prices and sped up sales⁴. Plus, more people owning their homes suggests a stable market⁴.

In Buffalo, housing options are wide-ranging. North Buffalo, for example, has everything from single-family homes to apartments². The West Side is another area to watch. It mixes single-family homes with commercial properties, thanks to its downtown location. This mix boosts its investment value².

In conclusion, Buffalo’s real estate market is a sign of economic health. The city blends historic appeal with new development. This creates a rich environment for both home and commercial investments. With its ongoing economic boost, Buffalo’s future as an investment hotspot looks very promising.

Elmwood Village: A Prime Investment Spot

Elmwood Village is a top choice for those looking at Buffalo real estate investment. It mixes old-time charm with a varied real estate scene. This makes it perfect for new and experienced investors.

Historical Significance and Charm

Elmwood Village’s properties are known for their historical neighborhoods. This offers a peek into Buffalo’s rich architectural past. The area has a range of vintage homes, apartments, and multi-family houses. Each has its own special charm and character.

This historical beauty is not just nice to look at. It also draws in renters and buyers who love these classic traits in neighborhoods.

Current Market Trends

The real estate scene in Elmwood Village is quite varied, showing many types of properties and prices. The area’s average sale price is $365,000, currently down 17.3% from last year⁵. Property sizes also differ a lot. They range from small apartments of 572 sq ft to big homes of up to 7,164 sq ft⁵.

Last month saw the sale of 13 homes, 11 condos, 3 townhouses, and 26 multi-family units here. This shows active market participation⁶.

Why Investors Love Elmwood Village

Investors are drawn to Elmwood Village for its stable property values and varied market. Property prices range from $90,000 to $1.25 million. This suits different investment sizes⁵. The area also offers a mix of unit types. These range from small 1-bed 1-bath units to bigger 3-bed 1.5-bath homes, allowing for many investment strategies⁶.

The average listing price for condos now on sale in Elmwood Village is $327K⁶. These homes typically stay on the market for 73 days, often getting one offer⁶. This constant interest, along with the cozy neighborhoods and beautiful properties, promises a bright future for investors.

Allentown: Historic and Artistic

Allentown shines as Buffalo’s artistic soul, full of colorful houses and bright murals⁷. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1980, and expanded in 2012⁸, it’s known for unique buildings and lively nightlife. It’s a hit with those looking to blend culture with convenience.

Architectural Appeal

Allentown’s architecture is a standout, with historic houses adding to its charm⁷. The area’s quirky vibe and dynamic street art attract tourists and house hunters alike. It’s prized for its history and as a spot for investments and preservation.

Proximity to Downtown Buffalo

Being near downtown Buffalo makes Allentown attractive. This spot offers easy access to the city’s heart and fun activities. The neighborhood benefits from Buffalo’s growth, making it appealing for investments⁸.

Investment Opportunities

Allentown offers great chances for investors interested in homes and shops. It’s known for arts and nightlife, appealing to buyers and businesses. Its blend of old and new makes it an excellent choice for real estate⁷⁸. Learn more about Buffalo’s neighborhoods and their investment potential here⁷.

North Buffalo: A Diverse Housing Market

North Buffalo is well-known in real estate. It has many housing and commercial property opportunities. This part talks about the different kinds of properties and how commercial real estate is a good investment in North Buffalo.

Range of Property Types

In North Buffalo, you can find many types of homes. From old-style houses to new apartments. The median home price is $295,000, showing that properties are in high demand here⁹. For renters, there are options too. A one-bedroom place costs about $925 per month. A two-bedroom is around $1,577⁹. This shows the wide range of housing available in North Buffalo, for all budgets.

Commercial Real Estate Potential

Aside from homes, North Buffalo is great for commercial real estate. It has lots of industrial parks and business areas. These spots draw in both companies and investors. The commercial properties are perfect for different types of businesses. They offer chances for growth. This is why investors looking to spread their risks are drawn to North Buffalo. It adds to the area’s attractive market.

Hertel Avenue: Commercial and Residential Opportunities

Hertel Avenue is a lively area both for businesses and for living, drawing a lot of interest in Buffalo’s real estate. It’s in a great spot and offers a wide range of investment options that show just how active Hertel Avenue is.

Bustling Commercial Hub

Revival projects have turned Hertel Avenue into a busy commercial area. One big project at 1585 Hertel Avenue transformed an old gas station. Now, it has 34 apartments and 2 business spots¹⁰. This project is seen as a big win for the community, adding both economic and social value, says the North Buffalo Organization Board of Directors¹⁰.

Also, efforts are made to boost business districts, with support from the John R. Oishei Foundation to create jobs locally¹¹. The Buffalo Main Streets Initiative aims to improve areas from Shoshone Street to Delaware Avenue. It helps local businesses grow¹¹. More commercial spaces are now up for sale or rent. Prices per square foot remain attractive, drawing in all kinds of businesses¹².

Recent Growth and Development

There’s growth in residential options too, with apartments sized from 500 to 1,055 square feet. They have good prices¹⁰. A $500,000 grant from the Better Buffalo Fund backed this project. Features like a green roof and bike storage meet today’s living standards¹⁰. Over 85% of these places are already taken, showing high demand for housing here¹⁰.

There’s a good mix of business and living spaces on Hertel Avenue. This mix keeps rental prices appealing for those looking to move here¹². With many new buildings, Hertel Avenue is an ideal spot for investing and living¹².

The changes on Hertel Avenue show the growth potential in Buffalo’s real estate market. This is thanks to collaborative efforts by different agencies including Empire State Development¹⁰. Hertel Avenue is a prime choice for those wanting a lively business scene and cozy residential options.

To see what’s currently on offer in this area, check out this listing. It gives a glimpse into what makes Hertavenuel Avenue stand out as an investment choice.

West Side: Cultural Diversity and Potential

Buffalo’s West Side is a cultural hub, rich in diversity thanks to its immigrant and refugee communities¹³. The area boasts a vibrant life and a broad range of cuisines, from Vietnamese to Egyptian. These can be enjoyed at places like the West Side Bazaar.

The Green Development Zone (GDZ) covers 25 square blocks and was started by PUSH Buffalo in 2008¹⁴. This initiative has turned empty lots into sustainable homes¹⁴. PUSH Buffalo also focuses on issues like reducing utility costs, supporting clean energy, and improving affordability. These efforts make the area more inviting for new investments¹⁴. The region shows promise with a median income of $20,000, yet many residents live in poverty¹⁴.

The investment potential in West Side Buffalo, particularly in the Lower West Side, is clear¹⁵. Here, the median real estate price is around $434,846. This is higher than 37.2% of neighborhoods in New York and 62.2% across the U.S¹⁵. The area’s housing, mostly small apartments, is mainly rented out. This attracts a wide range of tenants¹⁵.

Commercial development is enhancing West Side Buffalo’s attraction¹³. The Monroe project plans to add 17 workforce apartments and 11,000 square feet of commercial space with a $8.4 million budget. This boosts the neighborhood’s potential for mixed-use developments¹³. With additions like restaurants and co-working spaces, West Side’s real estate appeal grows while preserving its cultural charm¹³.

Lower West Side has a vacancy rate of 8.6%, lower than many other areas in the U.S¹⁴¹⁵. Affordable homes in the GDZ attract investors interested in community-focused and profitable investments.

Aspect	Data	Reference
Median Real Estate Price	$434,846	15
Average Rental Price	$1,173	15
Vacancy Rate	8.6%	15
GDZ Median Household Income	$20,000	14
GDZ Area Coverage	25 Square Blocks	14
Monroe Project Budget	$8.4 Million	13

East Side: Affordable Investment Possibilities

The East Side of Buffalo offers many cheap investment options. This makes it an attractive place for investors, whether they’re beginners or pros. With big projects and a strong housing scheme, there’s plenty of potential here.

Section 8 Opportunities

The East Side is great for Section 8 housing investments. Buffalo and Erie County are spending $23.5 million to build around 100 affordable homes. This development is mainly on vacant lots on the East Side, which is great for Section 8 landlords¹⁶. They’re using $10 million from Buffalo’s American Rescue Plan Act funds and $13.5 million from Erie County¹⁶. This effort will make East Side more affordable and attractive to investors interested in Section 8.

Finding the Right Block

Looking for the best block on the East Side? Consider the unique aspects of each area. Homes here average at $125,000, making it more affordable than other Buffalo neighborhoods¹⁷. With 53 homes for sale and an average sale time of 35 days, there’s a lot to choose from¹⁷. Also, homes usually get about three offers, showing a lively investment scene¹⁷.

What’s more, this area is easy to walk around, with a Walk Score of 72. This makes it enticing for renters and buyers¹⁷. There are about 4,614 people living in East Buffalo, with 4,473 jobs available. This confirms it as a good place to invest¹⁷.

Metric	Data
Median Listing Price	$125,000
Number of Current Homes for Sale	53
Average Market Time	35 days
Average Offers Per Home	3
Walk Score	72
Approximate Population	4,614 people
Number of Jobs	4,473
Number of Homes Sold Last Month	8
Number of Condos for Sale Last Month	0
Number of Townhouses for Sale Last Month	0
Number of Multi-Family Units for Sale Last Month	33

Downtown Buffalo: Heart of the City

Downtown Buffalo is the vibrant heart of the city. It’s a hotspot for both living and business spaces. Many are drawn to this area for its urban real estate opportunities.

Proximity to Key Amenities

Downtown Buffalo is close to important places like universities and businesses. It’s near Canalside too, with its exciting events and concerts all year³. Dining, shopping, and fun options are everywhere. This makes it great for both people living there and investors.

Residential and Commercial Properties

In the last five years, downtown Buffalo has become even better for living. It offers homes at better prices than many other US cities¹⁸. You can find everything from modern apartments to cool, renovated lofts. This attracts young workers and families alike.

For businesses, the area is booming with new offices and ventures. It’s a top spot for investing in real estate. And it’s why Downtown Buffalo is perfect for those wanting to invest in a lively city center.

The table below shows property trends and median values in Downtown Buffalo:

Property Type	Median Value	Percentage of Rentals
Residential	$180,00018	77%3
Commercial	$250,000	45%

South Buffalo: Community and Growth

South Buffalo shines as a key location for property growth.It draws investors, making it perfect for investment opportunities. In the last five years, $22.6 billion in development has launched in the area. This development is boosting the local economy¹⁹. People here love their community. They enjoy parks, eating out, and shopping, making life there great.

The area thrives thanks to big investments. New York State promised over $1 billion in 2012 to help Buffalo grow.This promise grew by $500 million in 2017. M&T Bank plans to create 1,000 new tech jobs in the area¹⁹. South Buffalo also offers affordable housing, ranked ninth-worldwide, enticing investors.

South Buffalo is known for its rich culture and family-friendly spaces. Attractions like Explore and More Children’s Museum make it appealing.The Buffalo Heritage Carousel also boosts Buffalo’s family-friendly ranking to 17th in the U.S. News Best Places to Live for 2023-2024²⁰. These aspects enhance South Buffalo’s attractiveness for investment.

This neighborhood is safe and convenient, making it appealing for both living and investing.It offers easy walking, public transport, and access to education and culture. As the population increases, South Buffalo shines as a thriving community and investment hub²¹.

Delaware District: Walkability and Amenities

The Delaware District is treasured for blending old-style charm with today’s conveniences. This makes it a top spot for those looking to invest in Buffalo’s properties. People love it here for the easy walks and wide range of services that meet all needs.

Variety of Property Types

The Delaware District has lots of property types to choose from. You’ll find large homes, apartment buildings, and business spaces. Each choice adds to the area’s lively feel and makes it a great place for investment.

Why Invest Here

Living in the Delaware District means you’re close to everything. It’s near Elmwood Village and other exciting areas. This location boosts investment value by offering high returns for wise investors. For more on Buffalo’s neighborhoods, visit this guide²².

Buffalo’s overall livability score is 78 out of 100. This means a high life quality for people living here²³. It’s a big reason why investors are attracted to the Delaware District²³.

Let’s look at how the housing and rental markets compare in the Buffalo area. You’ll see why the Delaware District is a great choice for investment:

Neighborhood	Median Home Sale Price	Average Rent	Average Commute to Buffalo
Niagara Falls	$152,000	$837	25 min
Cheektowaga	$228,000	$1,382	15 min
Tonawanda	$205,000	$1,489	20 min
Amherst	$340,000	$1,367	20 min
West Seneca	$290,000	$1,050	15 min
Lancaster	$329,000	$1,464	20 min
Hamburg	$355,000	$762	20 min
Lockport	$175,000	$950	30 min
Orchard Park	$400,000	$1,272	20 min

The Delaware District shines as an ideal investment spot. Its varied properties, ease of walking, and lifestyle perks make it popular among buyers and investors.

The Best Neighborhoods To Invest In Buffalo, NY

Buffalo, NY, has many areas great for investing. The best spots have their own unique features that make them stand out. One top spot is Elmwood Village. It’s famous, keeps growing in value, and has a special charm. It’s a true New York real estate gem²⁷.

Another area worth noticing is Allentown. It’s right in downtown Buffalo and has many types of properties². It’s known for its artsy feel and cool buildings. Right next to it, North Buffalo has both houses and places for businesses, especially in its industrial areas². Also, Hertel Avenue is getting a lot of attention for its growing business scene².

The West Side is all about cultural mix and offers lots of different living spaces²⁷. Here, you might find hidden gems that are undervalued¹. The East Side is also interesting because it’s affordable and close to downtown. However, it’s a bit riskier due to higher crime but is good for Section 8 projects²¹.

Downtown Buffalo is on the up and up, especially with its closeness to colleges and businesses²⁷. South Buffalo is also gaining traction, known for its tight-knit community and various home types². And don’t forget about the Delaware District. It has many kinds of properties and is super convenient for getting to downtown or Elmwood Village².

If you’re thinking about investing near schools, University Heights is perfect for student rentals. It’s near the University at Buffalo². The areas of Larkinville & First Ward are historically rich and affordable. They offer great chances for different investment plans like buy-and-hold, house hacking, and fixing to sell¹.

In a nutshell, each part of Buffalo offers unique chances to invest wisely. These areas help grow your investment portfolio and find real estate treasures¹⁷.

Conclusion

Buffalo’s real estate scene is bustling, offering great investment choices in many areas. Each neighborhood brings something special, from historical sites to new builds. This applies to both shops and houses. Making smart investments here could lead to big wins. The city’s property scene keeps growing, with values going up, especially in places like Elmwood Village and North Buffalo². And, Buffalo’s been named a top real estate spot for 2024, highlighting its good investment chances²⁴.

Recently, Money.com listed Buffalo among the best U.S. cities to live in 2024. This follows a decade of renewal and new projects²⁴. Hertel Avenue, for example, has seen impressive growth, making it ripe for business investments². The city is not just about money though. It has a lively arts scene, is affordable, and offers great food, making it attractive to investors and new residents alike²⁵.

Smart investing in Buffalo’s property market means doing your homework and keeping up with trends. It’s important to talk to local experts and use tools like the impact of location on property value to make informed choices. With its growing potential, Buffalo is a welcoming place for both experienced and first-time investors.

FAQ

What makes Buffalo, NY, a promising real estate investment locale?

Buffalo, NY, is growing as a key place for real estate investment. Its downtown area is coming back to life, and its neighborhoods offer lots of amenities. The city’s growth, diverse houses, and strong economy show it’s great for investing.

Where are the best neighborhoods to invest in Buffalo, NY?

Top spots to invest in Buffalo are Elmwood Village, Allentown, and North Buffalo. Hertel Avenue, the West Side, East Side, Downtown, South Buffalo, and the Delaware District are also great. These areas offer everything from historic beauty to modern growth opportunities.

Why is Elmwood Village considered a prime investment spot?

Elmwood Village is famous for its old buildings and easy public transport. Property values here keep going up. This makes it a top choice for those looking to invest in Buffalo. It’s known for growth and charm.

What are the investment opportunities in Allentown?

Allentown is full of history and unique architecture, close to downtown Buffalo. It has lots of real estate choices, perfect for investors wanting city life and culture. Its nearness to downtown and investment options make it appealing.

How diverse is the housing market in North Buffalo?

North Buffalo offers a wide range of houses and apartments. There’s also much to explore in commercial investment, with many industrial parks. It’s a place for investors looking at business growth too.

What investment opportunities does Hertel Avenue offer?

Hertel Avenue is bustling with commercial growth, making it great for investment. It’s getting more popular for shops, dining, and fun places. This boosts its chance as a top area for living and business.

Why should investors consider the West Side of Buffalo?

The West Side is known for its cultural mix, offering great investment chances. It’s close to city landmarks and has various homes and commercial spaces. This area is attractive for its lively community and investment benefits.

What makes the East Side of Buffalo affordable for investment?

The East Side of Buffalo has cheap options for investors, with good cash flow possible. It’s even affordable with Section 8’s low rents. This makes it appealing for those exploring different neighborhood characters for investing.

What are the key amenities near Downtown Buffalo that make it attractive for investment?

Downtown Buffalo is near universities, businesses, and services. Its center has a lot of investment potential, in historic and new properties. It attracts investors who want the city’s energy.

What is the investment potential in South Buffalo?

South Buffalo has a strong community feel and is on the up. It has various properties, plus parks, restaurants, and shops. This area looks set for major investment growth, thanks to its lively community and emerging opportunity zones.

Why is the Delaware District considered a top-tier investment prospect?

The Delaware District offers walkable streets and full amenities. It has homes, multi-units, and commercial spaces. Its convenience and lifestyle appeal, near fun places like Elmwood Village, make it a top investment choice.

What factors should investors consider when evaluating Buffalo’s real estate market?

Investors should check the location, amenities, prices, and market trends in Buffalo. Economic indicators, property value trends, and neighborhood types are key. They help find profitable investments in Buffalo’s varied and changing property scene.

Source Links

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11. Member Resources – https://hertel-ave.com/pages/member-resources
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13. The Latest and Greatest @ The Monroe, including Saffron Kitchen and West Side Bazaar – Buffalo Rising – https://www.buffalorising.com/2024/05/the-latest-and-greatest-the-monroe-including-saffron-kitchen-and-west-side-bazaar/
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