East Detroit neighborhood with opportunities for sweat equity
Outer Drive-Hayes is a sprawling east Detroit neighborhood where lower prices draw homebuyers willing to put in some work. Many of the area's streets are densely populated, typical of urban areas, however, the demolishing of 600 homes has left other streets less so. While vacant lots have yet to be reclaimed, the changing landscape has helped home values skyrocket. According to data from the City of Detroit, at least 138 homes have already been renovated. "A lot of investors have bought there because there are such great opportunities," says Bill Schulze, who has owned and rented out many homes in the neighborhood for nearly two decades. "I bought one for $5,000, and I'm going to try to sell it for $110,000 or $120,000." Infrastructure updates are also part of the neighborhood's transformation. "When I bought those houses 15 or 16 years ago, they didn't even have streetlights here," Schulze says. "Now they have streetlights, they're working on the sewer system, and the roads are much better."
Brick cottages and bungalows
Smaller, brick homes throughout the neighborhood retain their character from the 1930s and '40s. Many cottages have distinctive Tudor features such as decorative brickwork and roof gables ending in steep points. Bungalows have low-pitched roofs covering front porches. These are packed tightly alongside other homes or vacant lots. Occupied properties are often well-maintained with trimmed hedges and mowed lawns, but abandoned properties are also throughout the neighborhood. Due to their age, Schulze says these homes can require significant updates like new sewer lines, but the return on investment is worth it. Fixer-uppers can range from $50,000 to $60,000, while move-in-ready homes are available for $70,000 to $110,000. "If you can buy a home for $110,000 and rent it out for $1,200 each month, that would be outstanding anywhere," Schulze says. "That's the norm in Detroit."
A new basketball court, courtesy of the Detroit Pistons.
Green space is generally lacking here, but the city and others are improving existing spaces and adding new amenities. Outer Drive-Hayes was identified as a "park gap area" in Detroit's 2022-2032 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan. The designation means the neighborhood is more than a 10-minute walk from the nearest park, and the plan intends to eliminate these gaps through development. Recently, the neighborhood's Glenfield-Lannett Playground got a new basketball court as part of a city-wide project led by the Detroit Pistons. The neighborhood is within 2 miles of Chandler Park, one of the city's largest parks. It is to the southwest and has sports fields and courts. A recreation center, expected to open in mid-2025, will bring indoor exercise opportunities such as group fitness classes.
I-94 leads to major Detroit landmarks
Outer Drive-Hayes is a commuter-friendly neighborhood. Interstate 94 leads to employers in the suburbs and attractions in downtown Detroit, 10 miles west. "The freeway access makes it easy to get in and out,” says Quinn Martin, a broker with Leboursia Realty Group who works in the area. I-94 also connects to hospitals and airports. Detroit Medical Center, located 8 miles west, provides 24-hour emergency care. Detroit Metropolitan Airport operates more than 800 daily flights to three continents.
Brewer Academy takes the podium at the Academic Games
Detroit Public Schools Community District allows parents and students to select schools. Yet, students can also attend schools in their zone, based on street address. Wayne Elementary School serves pre-kindergarten through sixth-grade students, while Brewer Academy serves pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. Brewer has won state and national titles in the Academic Games competition. Students may complete their high school diploma at Denby High School. It has internships and job shadowing opportunities through partnerships with local businesses and organizations. Each of these three schools earns an overall C-minus grade from Niche.
Trendy eateries at Grosse Pointe and Midtown
Shopping and dining are in either direction down I-94. To the east, the Grosse Pointe is an upscale retail destination featuring modern shops and patio bistros. Salvatore Scallopini Italian serves pasta inside the sunny dining room and on the outdoor patio. To the west, the Midtown neighborhood is another dining destination with trendy restaurants and bars. This area shines during Noel Night, a busy December celebration with live performances, holiday shopping and crafts. On the neighborhood's south side, Harper Avenue is a commercial strip with casual dining options such as Universal Coney, one of many restaurants like it in the city. It's a casual diner concept serving Coney Island-style hot dogs. Royal Fresh Market has fresh produce and other groceries nearby.
Rock shows at Harpos Concert Theater
Neighborhood landmarks root Outer Drive-Hayes in history and community. On Harper Ave, Harpos Concert Theater is a historic Art Moderne venue that originated in 1939 as a movie theater. Today, it hosts rock, heavy metal and hip-hop acts. Big names such as Judas Priest, U2 and Iron Maiden have graced the stage. Residents find community at the various neighborhood churches hosting virtual and in-person Sunday services. St. Matthew Catholic Church hosts a formal spring dance featuring a five-course dinner and an open bar. The dance has different themes, such as jazz night. Lord of Lords Christian Church hosts neighborhood cleanup events.
Decreasing crime rates
Outer Drive-Hayes has higher-than-average crime scores, but they're trending downward. The neighborhood has a CAP Index crime score of 7 out of 10, compared with the national average score of 4 out of 10. It has a 10 out of 10 homicide score. However, in 2024, the ShotStoppers initiative reported a 48% violence reduction in Outer Drive-Hayes and surrounding neighborhoods. Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, the program aims to prevent shootings and homicides in Detroit's high-crime areas.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the Outer Drive-Hayes neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Outer Drive-Hayes
US
Homicide
6
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
7
4
Robbery
8
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
8
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Outer Drive-Hayes Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Outer Drive-Hayes, Detroit sell after 49 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Outer Drive-Hayes, Detroit over the last 12 months is $70,000, up 13% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Stunning remodeled 3 bedroom brick bungalow in a mature and picturesque neighborhood, conveniently located, A MUST SEE!. The moment you walk through the front door you'll be taken aback by the sparkling detail of this home. Soaring ceilings guide you through the entry featuring original timeless details meticulously updated with massive fireplace. The living room is illuminated by incredible
Investor Special. Great 4/1 in Outer Drive-Hayes fully rehabbed in 2020 with new roof, plumbing and electric. Home features wood floors, new bath & updated kitchen. Buyer to pay $495 processing fee to listing broker. Home recently experienced fire damage. Sold AS-IS
three-bedroom, one-bathroom colonial-style home located in Detroit, on the city's west side. The property offers a spacious layout ** PROPERTY IS RENTED WITH A GOOD PAYING TENNAT**** !!!DO NOT DISTURB THE TENANTS*
INVESTOR OR OWNER-OCCUPANT SPECIAL! 3-BEDROOM BRICK BUNGALOW BOASTING 1,100 SQ FT OF LIVING SPACE. NICE CURB APPEAL WITH NEW LANDSCAPING AND UPDATED EXTERIOR VINYL PAINT. FEATURES A TWO CAR DETACHED GARAGE, LIVING ROOM WITH A BRICK FIREPLACE, AND A LARGE CORNER LOT WITH FENCED YARD. READY FOR THE PERFECT TENANT OR HOMEOWNER. SELLER IS OFFERING SELLER CONCESSIONS AND APPLIANCES, MAKING THIS A
3 BEDROOM CAPE COD STYLE BRICK HOME. THIS WILL MAKE AN INCREDIBLE ADDITION TO INVESTORS PORTFOLIO. PROPERTY IS PRODUCING 1200 A MONTH, ALL PAID BY SECTION 8. PROPERTY IS SECTION 8 CERTIFIED. TENANT PAYS ALL UTILITIES. HOWEVER, TENANT PLANS ON RELOCATING. THE PROPERTY MAY BE VACANT AT CLOSING. NEWER ROOF AND WINDOWS. HARDWOOD FLOORS AND MORE. ALL INFORMATION IS ESTIMATED. BATVAI. SELLER WILL LOOK
Fully Remodeled 3 Bed, 1 Bath Bungalow on Detroit’s East Side!This move-in ready home features beautiful hardwood floors throughout, an updated interior, and a clean, spacious layout. Enjoy a full basement offering extra storage or finishing potential, plus a 1-car garage for added convenience. Whether you’re a first-time buyer looking for a turnkey home or an investor seeking a solid rental
Completely renovated in 2026, this stunning home features updated electrical, plumbing, and a new roof! A spacious front porch welcomes you inside to a bright and airy interior highlighted by recessed lighting and a cozy fireplace in the living room, creating the perfect gathering space. The beautifully updated kitchen showcases a classic subway tile backsplash and sleek, contemporary finishes
Great opportunity for to turn this house into a home. This 3 bedroom home includes 2 lots, 13050 and 13056 Evanston, so expand on the home, or build two new ones as you redevelop. Sale contingent on buyer/seller executed development agreement. Please note that the Detroit Land Bank Authority is entitled to a tax capture for the 5 tax years subsequent to transferring ownership of the property. The
Here is a tenant occupied Ranch on Detroit's East Side. Current rent is 1000 / month. Lease and ledger available upon request. No showings prior to accepted offer. Room sizes estimated. BATVAI.
Step into this spacious 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home nestled in a quiet Detroit neighborhood. This classic bungalow offers vintage charm with modern potential, making it perfect for investors, first-time buyers, or anyone looking for value in a growing market. The main floor features a bright living room with rich hardwood floors, an original fireplace mantle, and large picture windows that let in
THIS TWO STORY HOME HAS A LOT TO OFFER. HOME WAS BUILT BY THE ORIGINAL OCCUPANT, WHO WASA BUILDER. ROOF IS GOOD, NEWER VINYL WINDOWS. FURANCE AND HOT WATER TANK MISSING.
4 beds 1 bath!!! Very Nice block!! Enjoy the convenience of being close to fantastic restaurants, shops, major highways, and more. Don't miss this opportunity !
Move-In Ready 3-Bedroom Rental!Welcome to this well-maintained and move-in ready home offering 3 bedrooms and 1 full bathroom. The property features central air conditioning, spacious backyard with a one car garage, and a partially finished basement that provides additional living space perfect for a family room, home office, workout area, or extra storage. The kitchen and basement comes
Future DavisEXP Realty Main
$1,400 per month
This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath single-family home is ready for move-in!
Enjoy recent renovations, including a brand-new kitchen with appliances, an updated bathroom, new flooring, and fresh paint throughout. The home also features a refrigerator, stove, and washer/dryer hookups in the basement for your convenience.Managed by Atwood, we take pride in providing quality homes for Detroit residents. Our team works closely with our applicants to ensure a smooth
$1,244 per month
Fully Renovated 3-Bedroom Home – Move-In Ready for You!
Enjoy recent renovations, including a brand-new kitchen with appliances, an updated bathroom, new flooring, and fresh paint throughout. The home also features a refrigerator, stove, and washer/dryer hookups in the basement for your convenience.Section 8 Residents are accepted and welcomed!Managed by Atwood, we take pride in providing quality homes for Detroit residents. Our team works
This charming home offers practical living space with its well-designed layout. - Equipped with a gas range for efficient cooking- Forced air heating and Ceiling fans - Wood plank floors and tiles- Laundry hookups- On-Street ParkingLocated in a vibrant neighborhood with easy access to local amenities and services.1 Gig internet service for $65.95/month.
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