Market & Trends
13 Tips to Spot Emerging Cities USE THESE INDICATORS TO DIAL INTO NEW MARKETS—BEFORE THEY BOOM.
LUKE BABICH
T he best position for a successful investment in an emerging market is in the front row. Getting in early means lower prices, tons of real estate to choose from, and bigger potential gains. But how do you know which markets are poised to expand? Paying close attention to leading economic indicators gives investors the best chance of predicting market trends in emerging cities. Here are 13 tips for what to keep an eye on:
tend to move where jobs are, and more jobs mean more growth. But it’s not just those fresh out of the dorms who can pinpoint an emerging city. Significant trends among young families and mid-career professionals also indicate new market opportunities. Talent migration that includes mid-career professionals means they are being lured to potentially better opportunities. 2. EYES ON THE ROAD(S) New infrastructure such as roads, public transportation, and commercial hubs can signal upcoming market growth and expansion. In some cases, cities have a long-term development plan, with new infrastructure just the first step. Local planning offices are a good source for
uncovering a city’s multiyear development plan. These plans are part of the public record and accessible to anyone who asks. Keep in mind that not all infrastructure investment is the same; costly repairs from major climate crises or other natural disasters might be a sign to run in the opposite direction. 3. BRING IN BIG DATA AND AI Despite the challenges that AI and big data can present, these tools are an incredible way to process copious amounts of data and predict patterns and trends in emerging cities. This analysis is done in real time and can give investors a competitive edge in everything from monitoring property values to analyzing the most affordable places to live.
1. PAY ATTENTION TO WHERE THE GRADS GO
Movement in the population is one of the best ways to predict market trends in emerging cities, and this can often start with new college grads. These young, educated professionals
42 | think realty magazine :: march - april 2025
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