REI Wealth Monthly Issue 04 | Page 58

AFFORDABLE AND LUXURY AMERICAN CITIES TO INVEST IN FOR 2013 MARTIN OREFICE 1. Albuquerque, NM New Mexico is a state that often goes unnoticed, especially when it comes to investment potential. With the listed housing median down 9.6% over the last year, but up 0.5% in the last month to USD $169,900, this place could be a unique realty move to make. With high appreciation rates in recent history and indication that the market is moving upward this city would be ideal to purchase a house. One unique note to take down for this location is that it could be a perfect place to purchase real estate for retirement. In 2011 it was listed by Forbes as one of the best places in the U.S. to retire. Cities that have a progressive and growing university, such as this location does with the University of New Mexico, usually have investment promise. The students and their futures are going to be in the area for a long time, and this makes it a stable environment. 2. Miami, FL Luxury can be found in Miami, Florida. With the weather and culture combined with somewhat affordable real estate, investment opportunities are plentiful. In November 2012, the Miami and Fort Lauderdale metro areas had a median listing price of USD $212,000. Over the last year housing has been down 6.2%, but just in the last month it has jumped 3.5%. This is a good sign because the median list price is lower than it normally would be and the Miami area will not depreciate. It’s also a positive sign to see property on the upswing as we head into 2013, and this could be a perfect time to slide in and take advantage of the market. It is very important when looking in Miami for housing to take account of the neighborhood and other surrounding areas. There are parts of the city that are a little bit rough and there is a reason that median is slightly lower. If you choose to invest in a nice area, expect to be looking at listings slightly higher than 212,000 for a fairly modest house. Miami is known to be expensive, but it becomes an affordable investment when looked at long term. The lifestyle and property of Miami isn’t going anywhere for a reason and the appreciation rates make it worthwhile. Another investment opportunity in the panhandle would be to look at Florida rent-to-own homes. These can be prime if you want to bide time while taking over a house.