Best Neighborhoods To Invest In Norfolk, VA

Norfolk, Virginia is a great spot for buying real estate. It’s affordable, has lots of people looking to rent, and beautiful views. The city’s economy is strong, with jobs in finance, healthcare, and real estate. Plus, it’s near Virginia Beach, which draws many tourists.

RentEasy says Norfolk’s property market is going up. You’ll find different vibes in areas like Downtown Norfolk and Edgewater. Each place has its own charm and opportunities for investors.

For those searching for good property deals, look into Ghent, South Bayview, and Colonial Place. These areas are perfect for earning rental income or watching your investment grow.

Norfolk has the biggest naval base in the world¹. This helps the local economy a lot¹. The city is safe, with low crime rates, making it even more appealing to invest¹. With rising home prices and an average sale price of $210,000 and rent of $1,045, it’s a prime market for real estate investments with good returns².

Key Takeaways

• Norfolk’s real estate market is on the rise, making it a lucrative investment opportunity.
• The city’s economy is bolstered by sectors such as finance, healthcare, and real estate.
• Proximity to Virginia Beach enhances Norfolk’s tourism appeal.
• Norfolk hosts the largest naval base in the world, contributing significant spill-over revenue.
• Neighborhoods like Edgewater, Downtown Norfolk, Ghent, South Bayview, and Colonial Place are top picks for investors.
• The city’s low crime rate and moderate property costs add to its investment attractiveness.

Why Invest in Norfolk, VA Real Estate?

Norfolk, VA, is a great place for property investors. Its strong economy, need for rentals, and tourist spots make it a smart choice. You can really benefit from investing here.

Growing Economy

Norfolk’s economy is booming, thanks to a variety of jobs in healthcare, finance, and the military. The city has over 80,000 military members³. Big companies like Landmark Communications and Norfolk Southern are here too³. Plus, its waterways help with trade³. All this keeps the real estate market growing and profitable.

High Rental Demand

Most people in Norfolk rent their homes⁴. Workers, students, and visitors need places to stay. With average rent at $1,886 a month⁴, landlords can make steady money. This high demand makes investing here even more appealing.

Tourism Appeal

Norfolk is also a tourist hot spot³. With a new cruise ship pier, there’s even more interest. People come to see the waterfront and historic sites. This boosts the local economy and offers more chances for making money in real estate³.

So, investing in Norfolk’s real estate is a wise move. The area’s growing economy, need for rentals, and charm to tourists promise good returns. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to invest.

Edgewater: A Popular Family-Friendly Neighborhood

Edgewater, located in Norfolk, VA, is known for its charm. It is perfect for families looking for a home. It is only 5 miles north of downtown. So, it combines city life with suburban peace⁵.

Proximity to Downtown

Living close to downtown Norfolk means easy access to dining and entertainment. It’s great for both work and fun⁵. Edgewater homes are in demand, selling quick and attracting lots of interest⁶.

Quality Schools

In Edgewater, schools like Larchmont Elementary, Blair Middle, and Maury High are close by⁵. Families love this neighborhood for its focus on top-notch education. Plus, Old Dominion University offers more opportunities for learning and culture⁵.

Riverside Views

Edgewater offers beautiful riverside homes by the Lafayette and Elizabeth Rivers⁵. The area is known for historic houses with great views and big trees. It’s peaceful with lots of outdoor fun⁵. You can find out more about Edgewater’s waterfront homes here.

Downtown Norfolk: Affordable and Convenient

Downtown Norfolk is both affordable and convenient, great for investors and people wanting to live there. It’s known for its vibrant culture, full of historical places and cultural spots.

Entertainment and Dining Options

Downtown Norfolk is famous for its entertainment and food choices. There are top restaurants and cool cafes for every taste. This helps create a lively vibe in the area.

People can find everything from fancy meals to quick bites on the street. Such variety makes dining in Downtown Norfolk exciting.

Historical and Cultural Attractions

Downtown Norfolk is also known for its history and culture. Places like the Moses Myers House and MacArthur Memorial show off the city’s past.

There are also modern cultural places like theaters, galleries, and museums. These spots keep arts and culture booming for everyone to enjoy.

Homes in Downtown Norfolk are fairly priced, making it a great chance for investors. The average home sold for $313,500. Prices range from $187,700 to $1,495,000⁷.

Property values in the Hampton Roads area are going up. This shows that investing in Downtown Norfolk could be really smart⁸.

Ghent: Eclectic Charm with Diverse Appeal

The Ghent district in Norfolk, VA, is a lively place with a unique mix of real estate and culture. With its historic feel, it offers large homes, new condos, and walk-up apartments⁹. This blend appeals to many, showing Ghent’s charm and variety.

Historic Neighborhood

For those who love old homes, Ghent has 19 on offer¹⁰. These homes have a middle price of $250,000. This area grabs the attention of people and investors who want a piece of Norfolk’s history. Properties here are in demand, often getting two offers and selling in about 45 days¹⁰.

Art and Cultural Sites

Ghent shines with cultural sites like the Chrysler Museum of Art⁹. It also has the Harrison Opera House and the Virginia Ballet Theater. These places draw art lovers, adding to Ghent’s unique vibe.

Shopping and Dining Options

Shopping and eating out in Ghent is a treat. It has many shops and foods to choose from on 21st Street and Colley Avenue. This creates a fun mix of experiences for everyone⁹. Plus, its walk score of 77 makes it easy to get around and enjoy¹⁰.

To see homes in Ghent, click here for listings and more info.

In the end, Ghent wins hearts with its historic buildings, culture, and lively places to shop and eat. It’s a great pick for anyone looking to invest in this charming neighborhood in Norfolk, VA.

South Bayview: Safe and Affordable

South Bayview is perfect for those looking to make a smart investment. Its safety and affordability make it popular among young professionals and families. They seek a good life in a stable economic area. Its investment potential is strong, pulling in many new residents and raising the need for homes.

Low Crime Rate

Its low crime rate makes South Bayview a top choice for families wanting safety. This safety boosts the demand for homes and increases property values over time. Improved public transport in Norfolk means easier and safer travel for everyone¹¹.

Rising Home Values

Home values in South Bayview have jumped, signaling a prime spot for real estate investors. With an average home price of $201,200, it’s an appealing option for those seeking long-term benefits¹¹. This growth shows the area’s strong development and investment chance, backed by Norfolk’s stable population and economy¹².

Renowned Restaurants

The food scene here is a big draw, with many famous restaurants. These places are loved by locals and attract visitors from all over Norfolk. This boosts the local economy and makes investing in South Bayview very attractive.

Colonial Place: A Walkable and Serene Community

Located by the Lafayette River, Colonial Place merges charm with convenience. It has a Walk Score of 58, showing it’s quite walkable. This is perfect for those who love a stroll in Colonial Place¹³¹⁴. About 4,135 people live here. It’s both lively and peaceful, making it a good bet for investors¹⁴.

For real estate investors, Colonial Place has many housing types. It has eight homes waiting to be sold at a median of $475,000¹³. You can find everything from single-family houses to condos. This variety draws many buyers, indicating a sound investment¹⁴. Homes typically stay on the market for 45 days and usually get one offer. This shows a constant market demand¹⁴.

Last month, Colonials Place experienced the sale of several homes: five houses, one condo, eight townhouses, and two multi-family buildings¹³¹⁴. Its history and modern comforts make it an attractive spot for those wanting a quiet place¹³.

Colonial Place isn’t just walkable and quiet. It also has 779 job opportunities, creating a well-rounded community¹⁴. These features make it an attractive area for investors interested in a calm, residential setting¹⁴.

There’s a range of houses and styles to meet various tastes and family sizes. For the latest available homes, check out Homes for Sale in Norfolk¹³.

Best Neighborhoods To Invest In Norfolk, VA

Norfolk, VA, is a great place for real estate. It has economic vitality and thriving communities. The city offers a mix of architectural styles and places to invest.

One top spot is Edgewater-Larchmont. Here, the median house costs $389,000. Rent averages at $1,076¹¹. You’ll find homes in Colonial Revival, Tudor, and Craftsman styles along the Lafayette River¹⁵.

South Bayview is another key neighborhood with homes valued at about $201,200. It’s an affordable option for investors¹¹. Talbot Park also stands out, with houses averaging $357,000 and rent around $1,100. It’s a solid choice for rental income¹¹.

For waterfront homes, East Beach is perfect. It features a variety of house styles¹⁵. Ocean View offers beach cottages to luxury modern homes. All have Chesapeake Bay and Willoughby Bay access¹⁵.

Norfolk has neighborhoods for many investment goals. These spots offer both quick profits and steady growth. The city’s upgrading its transport systems too. This makes it easier to get around¹¹.

Norfolk Public Schools serve around 33,000 students. There’s also Old Dominion University and Norfolk State University. These schools make Norfolk a smart choice for property investment¹¹.

If you’re looking into Norfolk’s real estate, there are many property types available. For more info, see Norfolk’s real estate listings¹.

Factors to Consider Before Investing

Before you invest in Norfolk, VA, think about several key things. These include how much money you need upfront and understanding the area. Also, think about how much money you might make and what your costs could be.

Downpayment Requirements

The first money step is figuring out the downpayment. How much you need varies by property type and area. For example, places like Edgewater and Colonial Place might ask for different amounts compared to downtown. Make sure you have enough to cover this big cost.

Location Considerations

To pick the right spot, look at job growth, nearby services, and who lives there. Norfolk has a huge naval station. It’s a big part of the local economy and pulls in military folks and their families looking for homes¹⁶. Areas like Tidewater are popular with military and blue-collar workers. They often stay for a long time¹⁶. Knowing each area helps you choose wisely.

Expected Revenue and Expenses

You need to guess how much money you’ll make and spend. Norfolk’s colleges bring lots of students who need places to live¹⁶. Looking at different areas shows where you might earn more. For instance, Pocahontas Village in Virginia Beach has few empty homes. This suggests a high demand for property, possibly leading to good income for investors¹⁷. Consider these to get an idea of your investment’s financial side.

The Role of Property Management

Investing in rental properties in Norfolk, VA, means you may need experts to manage tenants and follow rental laws. These experts help keep the rental process smooth. This lets owners keep their properties in great shape easily.

Tenant Screening

Good tenant screening is key to avoiding trouble and keeping peace. It checks renters’ pasts, credit, and past rentals. By doing detailed screenings, managers find trustworthy tenants. This lowers the chance of issues and protects the property’s value.

Maintenance and Repairs

Keeping up with maintenance and repairs is a big part of property management. It involves regular checks, fixing normal damage, and quick emergency repairs. Places like Limehouse Property Management in Norfolk provide full services. They ensure properties are well-cared for, making tenants happy¹⁸.

Compliance with Virginia Rental Laws

Following Virginia’s rental laws is critical for staying legal. Managers need to know about tenant privacy, fair housing, and leases. They keep up with these laws to avoid legal trouble and ensure fairness. This way, property owners fulfill all legal duties and act without bias¹⁸.

Aspect	Details
Tenant Screening	Background checks, credit history, rental records
Maintenance and Repairs	Routine inspections, addressing wear and tear, emergency repairs
Compliance with Rental Laws	Tenant privacy, fair housing laws, lease agreements

Conclusion

Norfolk, VA is a great place for real estate investors, known for its many nice neighborhoods. Places like the lively Ghent and the handy Downtown Norfolk offer great chances for investment. With home prices around $300,000, Norfolk is an attractive option, especially compared to Virginia Beach’s $370,999¹⁹.

When investing in Norfolk, it’s important to understand a few key things. The city’s economy is growing, people need places to rent, and tourists love visiting. By knowing the market and planning carefully, investors can make smart choices that pay off. For example, Norfolk apartments rent for about $1,390 on average, showing a strong market for landlords¹⁹.

What’s more, some first-time buyers can get up to $40,000 help with down payments and closing costs in certain areas²⁰. To make your investment work, it’s wise to get advice on managing properties, like choosing the right tenants and keeping up with repairs. As the market in Norfolk changes, investing wisely after doing your homework can lead to making good money.

FAQ

What makes Norfolk, VA a lucrative market for real estate investment?

Norfolk, VA has a booming economy with healthcare, finance, and real estate growing fast. It’s affordable, has high demand for rentals, and is known for its beautiful sights. Its spot as a tourist favorite also makes real estate here very appealing.

What drives the high rental demand in Norfolk?

Many people, including tourists, students, and military folks, are looking for places to rent in Norfolk. This mix ensures landlords can always find renters, making Norfolk a great spot for investing in rental properties.

How does tourism impact Norfolk’s real estate market?

Norfolk is close to Virginia Beach and has lots of attractions, like the waterfront and historic sites. This makes it a hit with tourists. So, real estate here is more appealing because there are always visitors.

Why is Edgewater an appealing neighborhood for families?

Edgewater is great for families because it’s close to downtown Norfolk, has good schools, and offers beautiful rivers have views. Property values here have been going up steadily, showing it’s a smart place to invest.

What makes Downtown Norfolk a cost-effective area to invest?

Downtown Norfolk is affordable and convenient, combining historical places, cultural spots, and modern entertainment. It’s especially attractive to young professionals. This ensures the real estate market there keeps growing.

What unique qualities does Ghent offer to investors?

Ghent stands out with its unique vibe, offering a variety of dining options, cultural activities, and a historic feel. Though property appreciation has slowed a bit, its cultural spots and independent shops still promise good investment opportunities.

What makes South Bayview an attractive investment location?

South Bayview is notable for its safety and growing home values, plus great places to eat. These aspects make it inviting for young professionals and families looking for good investment options.

What investment opportunities does Colonial Place present?

Colonial Place is a walkable, calm area with both single and multi-family homes. Its low crime rate and rising property values make it appealing to investors wanting a peaceful and stable setting.

What should investors consider regarding downpayment requirements in Norfolk?

Buying real estate in Norfolk means needing a lot of money upfront for the downpayment. It’s important for investors to look into all the financial details before putting their money down.

How important is location when investing in Norfolk’s real estate?

Choosing the right spot is crucial for making a good investment. Things like job market growth, access to amenities, and safety should be looked at closely to get the best returns.

Why is involved property management crucial in Norfolk?

Good property management is key to keeping rentals full and in good shape. Following Virginia’s laws about tenant privacy and fair housing is also vital. Whether you manage your properties yourself or hire someone, knowing the ropes is important.

Source Links

1. KRS Holdings – https://www.krsholdings.com/articles/best-areas-invest-tidewater
2. TurboTenant Report: The Best Places to Buy Rental Investment Property in Virginia – https://www.turbotenant.com/blog/turbotenant-report-virginia/
3. Norfolk Real Estate Investing (Ultimate Guide) – https://renteasyva.com/real-estate-investing-norfolk
4. Highest Appreciating Norfolk Neighborhoods (last 5 years) – https://www.neighborhoodscout.com/va/norfolk/real-estate
5. No title found – https://www.crescasrealestate.com/edgewater
6. Vintage Homes for Sale in Larchmont-Edgewater, VA – https://www.redfin.com/neighborhood/92244/VA/Norfolk/Larchmont-Edgewater/vintage
7. Downtown Norfolk, VA Homes for Sale – https://www.redfin.com/neighborhood/181011/VA/Norfolk/Downtown-Norfolk
8. Most desirable areas to live in Norfolk, VA? (Virginia Beach, Chesapeake: sale, real estate market) – Hampton Roads area -Chesapeake – Hampton – Newport News – Norfolk – Portsmouth – Suffolk – Virginia Beach – https://www.city-data.com/forum/hampton-roads-area/315371-most-desirable-areas-live-norfolk-va.html
9. (Microsoft Word – Cover – Ghent Business District Economic and Market Study –) – https://www.norfolk.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1652
10. Vintage Homes for Sale in Ghent, VA – https://www.redfin.com/neighborhood/63652/VA/Norfolk/Ghent/vintage
11. Living In Norfolk, VA: Exploring Best Neighborhoods – https://www.hometownstation.com/featured-stories/living-in-norfolk-va-exploring-best-neighborhoods-494015
12. Is Norfolk A Good Place To Invest In Real Estate? – https://www.coastalviewrealty757.com/blog/is-norfolk-a-good-place-to-invest-in-real-estate/
13. Pending Listings in Colonial Place, VA – https://www.redfin.com/neighborhood/60852/VA/Norfolk/Colonial-Place/pending-listings
14. Cheap Homes for Sale in Colonial Place, VA – https://www.redfin.com/neighborhood/60852/VA/Norfolk/Colonial-Place/cheap-homes
15. Best Neighborhoods to Buy a Waterfront Home in Norfolk – https://www.crescasrealestate.com/blog/best_neighborhoods_to_buy_a_waterfront_home_in_norfolk/76669
16. KRS Holdings – https://www.krsholdings.com/articles/best-areas-invest-northern-virginia
17. Best Neighborhoods to Invest in Virginia Beach VA – https://limehousepropertymanagement.com/best-areas-invest-virginia-beach/
18. Best Neighborhoods for Rental Properties in Norfolk, VA — RealSnap – http://www.myrealsnap.com/blog/best-neighborhoods-norfolk-va
19. 10 Awesome Norfolk Suburbs to Consider Living in 2024 – https://www.redfin.com/blog/norfolk-va-suburbs/
20. Certain first-time homebuyers in Norfolk can now get up to $40K – https://www.wavy.com/news/local-news/certain-first-time-homebuyers-in-norfolk-can-now-get-up-to-40k/