7 Best Cities in Pennsylvania for House Flipping

This is a complete analysis on the best cities in Pennsylvania for house flipping.

Backed by data with sources.

Learn where the distressed properties are, how long it takes to flip, and which cities are the most profitable.

Let’s jump right in:

Best Cities in Pennsylvania to Flip Houses

Allentown

The Allentown housing market is very competitive, with homes selling quickly, often in around 12 days, and for 9.5% more than last year. A significant 40% of homes sold above list price, showcasing high demand and profitability for house flipping.

The median selling price of homes in Allentown is $223,000 and hot homes can sell in less than a week. This makes Allentown one of the best cities for house flipping in Pennsylvania.

Allentown’s appeal is further strengthened by a notable influx of buyers from metros like New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, indicating a strong and diverse demand.

Median days on the market: 8
Median home price: $235,000 (+10.1%)
Homes sold above list: 54.5%
Housing market data

Philadelphia

The Philadelphia housing market is excellent for house flipping because if its large inventory of distressed housing compared to other PA cities. While homes typically sell in around 52 days, 20.1% sell above the list price, reflecting a healthy demand.

Also, the median price of homes in Philadelphia is $234,000, so it makes it possible for new investors to flip homes. A notable portion of new residents are moving to PHL from high-demand metros like New York, San Francisco, and Seattle, indicating a diverse and increasing demand.

Median days on the market: 52
Median home price: $235,000 (-2.9%)
Homes sold above list: 22%
Housing market data

Erie

Compared to Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, the Erie housing market is competitive with homes selling in about 32 days on average. The median sale price has risen by 9.7% compared to last year, with 27.9% of homes sold above list price.

This indicates a strong demand and potential profitability for house flipping in Erie. As a waterfront city, Erie has lots of long term potential, especially because of its proximity to Holiday Valley in Ellicottville, NY and Lake Erie.

Median days on the market: 14
Median home price: $171,500 (+6.5%)
Homes sold above list: 23.1%
Housing market data

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh investment properties sell in about 57 days on average and a median sale price of $217,950. Around 19% of PIT homes were sold above the list price. This suggests a strong demand and willingness among buyers to pay more.

This, combined with Pittsburgh’s affordable cost of living and great schools, makes Pittsburgh an attractive market for house flipping. A significant portion of new residents moving to Pittsburgh are from high-demand areas like New York and Washington, further driving demand.

Higher demand means higher potential profit margins as well. Lower price point real estate values means more beginner house flippers can be part of the game. Pittsburgh really stands out with it’s higher than average inventory of distressed property.

Median days on the market: 57
Median home price: $217,950 (+1.4%)
Homes sold above list: 22.5%
Housing market data

Bethlehem

The Bethlehem housing market is very competitive, with homes receiving an average of 6 offers and selling in about 15 days. The median sale price was $285K in December 2023, marking a 12% increase from the year before.

The sale-to-list price ratio stands at 100.6%, indicating homes often sell for above the asking price. This competitiveness suggests strong demand and potential for house flipping profitability.

Median days on the market: 15
Median home price: $285,000 (+12%)
Homes sold above list: 49.3%
Housing market data

Harrisburg

Harrisburg is also on the list of best places to flip houses in Pennsylvania. The Harrisburg housing market is very competitive, with homes selling for a median price of $229,552, up 6.1% more than the same time last year. Homes sell quickly, on average in 24 days, and 36.9% of homes are sold above the list price.

Properties have a 97.5% sale-to-list price. This indicates strong demand and potential profitability for house flipping. Harrisburg attracts buyers from larger metros.

Median days on the market: 24
Median home price: $195,000 (+18.2%)
Homes sold above list: 36.7%
Housing market data

West Chester

The West Chester housing market is very competitive, with homes receiving an average of 7 offers and selling in about 21 days. The median sale price was $530K in December 2023. However, homes still sell close to their listing price, with a sale-to-list price of 99.2%.

This market attracts buyers from high-demand metros like New York, San Francisco, and Seattle. However, West Chester is a small town, so the inventory for fix and flips is just not there. It doesn’t mean it’s not possible, it’s just harder than other Pennsylvania cities on this list.

Median days on the market: 21
Median home price: $530,000 (-7.8%)
Homes sold above list: 21.1%
Housing market data

Is Pennsylvania a good market to flip houses?

Pennsylvania is currently experiencing a seller’s market, meaning demand for housing is high and inventory is low. This could lead to faster sales and potentially higher profits for flipped homes.

Studies also show that successful flips in Pennsylvania can generate profits of over $60,000 on average. Some areas, like Allentown and Pittsburgh, offer even higher returns to real estate investors.

The Pennsylvania real estate market is varied, from urban areas like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to suburban areas like West Chester. This diversity allows you to choose a real estate market that aligns with your investment goals and preferences.

Pennsylvania has the potential to be a great market for flipping houses. However, it’s crucial to do your research, understand the risks, and carefully analyze each deal before investing. Consider factors like neighborhoods, renovation costs, and projected sale prices.

Do you need a license to flip houses in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, you generally don’t need a real estate license to flip houses as an investor.

How much do house flippers make in Pennsylvania?

While every PA real estate investor works differently and every fix and flip project is different, there are some averages you can analyze. ZipRecruiter lists an average annual salary of $83,833 for real estate flipping in Allentown and $77,284 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Obviously, experienced flippers who can source good deals and manage projects efficiently are more likely to make bigger profits. This is why Pennsylvania house flipping can be a lucrative investment strategy.

Conclusion

While these are the best cities for house flipping in Pennsylvania, it doesn’t mean you won’t find great deals elsewhere. Many other cities in PA have lots of distressed properties to fix and flip. If you’re interested in buying a property and need fix and flip financing, contact us to get started.

Data updated February 16, 2024