Real Estate Investing

Real estate investing is a hot topic right now. Interest rates are low, prices are low — what’s not to love, right? If you’re looking to seize the day, keep one thing in mind. Go west, young man … or east, depending on where you sit as you read this. The Lonestar State is the place to be and other western states like Utah, Colorado and New Mexico are also getting some nods. It’s a veritable gold rush for the 21st Century.

Of course, the list of where to invest in real estate varies depending on which you look at. We looked at the Top 10 list compiled by real estate valuation company Fiserv Lending Solutions, the Top 10 list compiled by investment company HomeVestors, and the Top 7 compiled by HousingPredictor.com. One thing all three of these lists have in common is that Texas cities appear in the top three listings. Some say El Paso and McAllen, while others say Dallas, Houston or Austin. Regardless, it’s clear that Texas is the place to be. San Antonio and Ft. Worth are even mentioned in lower spots on some of the lists.

Actually, plenty of developers, second home buyers, snowbirds and vacationers truly are turning their sights from Florida to Texas. This has been a known fact for a while, but home prices are rising fast so capitalize before it’s too late.

Interestingly, Syracuse and Rochester in New York state made one list, with an expected 3.60% and 4.20% price appreciation this year. Asheville, North Carolina made another list because it has seen steadily increasing prices with no signs of slowing down and pro golfer Tiger Woods recently announced his plans to build a golf course megalopolis there. I am an avid golfer, but given the choice, I’d still have to head southwest, where the prices are lower and appreciation forecasts are greater. Grab your gun, boots and spurs — Lonestar State, here we come.