What Real Estate Should I Invest In? Tips from Southwest Michigan Experts

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What kind of real estate should I invest in?” — you’re not alone. Real estate continues to be one of the most popular and stable long-term investments, but with so many property types and strategies to choose from, it’s important to find the right fit for your goals.

At the Keefer Fischer Real Estate Team, we help buyers across Kalamazoo, Portage, Mattawan, Battle Creek, and the greater Southwest Michigan area make smart, profitable investment decisions. Here’s a simple breakdown of top real estate investment types and what might be best for you.

1. Single-Family Rentals

Great for: Long-term appreciation + steady rental income. These are the most common entry point for first-time investors. Single-family homes are typically easier to manage and more appealing to long-term tenants like families or professionals. In areas like Kalamazoo and Portage, demand for quality rental homes remains strong.

2. Multi-Family Properties

Great for: Higher cash flow + diversified risk think duplexes, triplexes, or small apartment buildings. Multi-family homes can generate more monthly income and spread out your risk (one vacancy doesn’t mean 100% loss of income). We often work with clients in Battle Creek and Mattawan who are building wealth with multi-unit properties.

3. Vacation or Short-Term Rentals

Great for: High-income potential in seasonal markets in Southwest Michigan, properties near lakes, trails, and tourist attractions can perform well as vacation rentals. With the rise of platforms like Airbnb, short-term rentals in scenic areas like Gull Lake or South Haven are becoming increasingly popular for investors.

4. Fix-and-Flip Opportunities

Great for: Hands-on investors looking for quick returns, buying a property below market value, renovating it, and reselling for profit can be highly rewarding—but also risky if not done correctly. We recommend working with experienced contractors and a knowledgeable agent who understands local market trends.

5. Commercial or Mixed-Use Properties

Great for: Long-term leases + business growth, for more advanced investors, commercial spaces or buildings with both residential and retail components can offer long-term stability and larger returns.

How to Choose the Right Investment

When deciding what real estate to invest in, ask yourself:

• Do I want steady rental income or a quick return?

• How much time and involvement can I commit?

• What’s my budget and financing strategy?

• Am I comfortable with property management?

  
  

The Keefer Fischer Real Estate Team, led by Kerry Keefer Fischer, offers local expertise and personalized guidance to help you invest with confidence. Whether you're just getting started or growing your portfolio, our team can help you evaluate opportunities and avoid common pitfalls.

Ready to Invest in Real Estate in Southwest Michigan?

We work with investors of all experience levels throughout Kalamazoo, Portage, Battle Creek, Mattawan, and beyond. Let’s talk about your investment goals and find a property that fits your plan.

📲 Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our local real estate experts.