If you’re looking to branch out from your standard rental homes or apartment complexes, you might want to explore alternative housing options in Lawton. Think college housing, sober living homes, and low-income properties. These can each bring some surprisingly attractive benefits—like higher demand, unique tax breaks, or even the satisfaction of helping people in need. But, as with any real estate investment, you’ve got to be aware of the challenges that come with the territory. Below, we’ll give you an overview of each housing type, then show you how DHS Realty Group can help you find (and manage) the right properties.
College Housing: High Demand, But Higher Turnover
Got a popular college or university nearby? How about a nursing school or hospital? Student rentals can be a steady cash flow machine, since there’s often a constant stream of students or traveling medical professionals needing a place to stay. If you’re near a large campus, your property could appreciate faster than typical rentals in other areas.
- Things to Watch: Students aren’t known for gentle wear-and-tear. You might face higher maintenance costs or more frequent repairs. Also, prepare for regular tenant turnover—some students will only rent for the academic year. Also Traveling Nurses usually need a furnished place but can be a profitable niche.
- Pro Tip: If you’re worried about that extra upkeep or dealing with rowdy tenants, consider a reliable property manager, or check out tips on handling tenant issues so you don’t get stuck with a bigger mess than expected.
Sober Living Homes: Making a Positive Impact
Sober living facilities provide a supportive environment for people transitioning from addiction treatment programs. By investing in these homes, you’re not only generating revenue but also giving back to your Lawton community.
- Why It Works: If run properly, these properties can offer stable and reliable income because residents typically have strict rules to follow and often come from reputable treatment centers. Also, there might be fewer competing investors since it’s a more specialized niche.
- What to Know: Laws and regs related to sober living can be very specific. You might need a partnership with a treatment center to keep the house consistently filled with tenants who stay sober. Do your research on local zoning or occupancy rules so you’re always operating above board. Also usually these types of properties will be larger – Think 4-5 bedrooms and 2-3 baths. Duplexes and Fourplexes could also be good depending on the layout. Small apartments might also be considered. If you have a relationship to keep the property full this might be a better way to go.
Low-Income Properties: Steady Demand and Possible Tax Benefits
Low-income rentals, whether they’re single-family homes or multi-unit properties, tend to stay occupied because there’s always a segment of the population needing affordable housing. Some areas also offer tax incentives or credits for providing low-income housing, making it even more appealing. We have seen a focus on affordable housing and the grants to assist with this. Depending on your company structure you may be able to apply for and win these types of grants or low interest loans making this strategy more profitable. Couple this with programs like section 8 or with some of the programs the Native American tribes offer you can get a steady stream of tenants and the monthly checks that come with them.
- Potential Hurdles: Maintenance and repairs can be more frequent if your tenants have fewer resources to handle minor fixes themselves. You might also have to comply with specific regulations or rent-control rules—so it’s best to stay informed before buying.
- Worth the Effort: You can genuinely make a difference in the community by offering affordable options, all while benefiting from consistent occupancy. For more insight on working with unique tenant situations, you might look into our article on the local investing environment to see how professional buyers operate in different scenarios.
How DHS Realty Group Helps You Score Great Deals
At DHS Realty Group, we’re all about helping you cut through the confusion. We’ve been around the Lawton real estate scene long enough to know the neighborhoods, regulations, and trends that can make or break alternative housing investments. Our approach includes:
- Spotting Undervalued Properties
We keep an eye on the market for properties with unique potential—whether they’re near a college campus, suitable for sober living, or poised for low-income housing programs. - Negotiating Solid Deals
One of the biggest perks of teaming up with our professional buyers is having skilled negotiators in your corner. We’ll work to secure properties at prices that make sense for your bottom line. - Insider Knowledge on Local Regulations
Zoning, occupancy limits, and other rules can be very different for alternative housing. We’ll help you navigate that red tape so you’re not blindsided by unexpected fines or legal hassles. - Management Insights
If you’re worried about tenant turnover or specialized upkeep, we can connect you with reputable property managers or give tips on day-to-day operations.
Taking the Leap into Alternative Housing in Lawton
There’s real potential in branching out beyond the usual single-family or multifamily route. College housing can offer a built-in tenant pool, sober living can provide steady income while supporting a community in need, and low-income rentals can bring both financial rewards and personal satisfaction.
Just remember, each one brings its own set of rules—in terms of tenant laws, property upkeep, or overall market demand. That’s why it helps to have a team like DHS Realty Group by your side. We’ll help you align these opportunities with your investment style and ensure your portfolio can handle the unique twists that come with each property type.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
If you’re eager to diversify in Lawton, give us a shout at 940-249-5752. The professional buyers at DHS Realty Group stand ready to help you locate, evaluate, and manage the perfect alternative housing investments—whether that’s a student-friendly duplex near a college, a sober living home in a safe neighborhood, or a low-income property that offers both financial perks and community benefits. Don’t let the unknown keep you from tapping into these profitable yet overlooked parts of the market!