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
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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 53 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Outer Drive-Hayes, Detroit over the last 12 months is $78,375, up 21% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home is perfect for a first-time home buyer or investor. The home has recently been refreshed, with some some TLC it will be a great place for the next owner. Finished basement and 2 car garage.
Wonderful investment opportunity located near major roads, restaurants and schools. This property is tenant occupied, please do not disturb or approach the Tenant. There are no showings until an offer has been accepted.
Turnkey investment opportunity! This tenant-occupied bungalow features 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and a detached garage, offering a strong addition to any investor's portfolio with built-in income from day one. The property is occupied by a reliable Section 8 tenant currently paying $1,300/month, ensuring immediate and consistent cash flow. Inside, you'll find a freshly updated kitchen with crisp
Solid brick bungalow opportunity in Detroit's east side, offering 900+ square feet of living space with a functional layout and long-term upside. Built in 1948, this home features a partially finished basement, fireplace, and attached garage, providing added value and flexibility for both owner-occupants and investors.Situated on a manageable lot, the property offers strong rental potential in an
Great rental or personal project house. This brick home offers both a basement and Garage and is located on the east side in 48224. Lots of potential! Needs some clean-out and elbow grease to make it sparkle!
PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS: Single-tenant net lease Family Dollar property located in Detroit, MI New 2015 renovation NNN+ lease with ±2.7 years remaining and (2) 5-year renewal options Located at the hard corner of Harper Avenue & Chalmers Street with multiple points of entry/access Offered at low rent/SF – strong credit asset at well below replacement cost ±8,000 SF building situated on ±0.35 acres
Gorgeous 3-bedroom gem full of character and priced to sell! Move right in—just bring your furniture. Featuring modern updates throughout, all-new flooring, fresh paint, and a spacious basement offering additional living space. Don’t miss this opportunity!
Anthony BertrandBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Kee Realty Bham
9161 Lakepointe St, Detroit, MI 48224 — Investment Opportunity with Immediate Cash Flow!This charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath brick bungalow (approx. 1,356 sq ft,!!!! is currently rented with a reliable, good tenant in place — perfect for investors seeking turnkey income or owner-occupants looking for a solid starter home. Solid brick construction for durability and classic Detroit
Move-in ready Detroit home with updates throughout! Features a bright and inviting interior, updated finishes, and a functional floor plan that offers comfortable everyday living. Major improvements include new plumbing and electrical systems, along with a new roof installed in 2025, providing peace of mind for years to come. A great opportunity for both owner-occupants and investors. Seller will
Very well maintained. 1st floor has fireplace, 2 bedrooms, and formal dining area. 2nd floor has 1 bedroom and full bathroom. This property has a 2 car detached garage, basement, and fenced in yard. Previously used as a multi family duplex but able to easily work as a single family home.
Move right in to this beautifully renovated Detroit brick bungalow! Every major cosmetic update has already been completed, including a stunning new kitchen featuring modern cabinetry, new countertops, brand-new appliances, and stylish finishes. The updated bathroom, fresh finishes throughout, and classic brick construction offer the perfect blend of modern convenience and timeless character.
***Section 8 Welcome*** Nestled on a quiet residential street on the Eastside, this home offers timeless curb appeal with a traditional brick exterior and a large driveway leading to the fenced backyard that provides room for outdoor entertaining or gardening. Step inside to a warm fireplace and inviting living space with plush carpet, large windows for plenty of natural light, and a cozy layout
Diamond Davis
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Loft Warehouse
Welcome to your next rental opportunity in the vibrant Outer Drive-Hayes district of Detroit, MI. This charming property is ideally located, placing you just moments away from an array of excellent restaurants and various department stores. For those in need of medical facilities, the Henry Ford St. John Hospital is only a nine-minute drive away, ensuring peace of mind.Key property
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 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
Property Id: 2715174 14823 Kilbourne $900 Cozy 2 Bedroom Brick Home for Rent, spacious living room, hardwood floors throughout, small dining room, eat-in kitchen, basement, large fenced in backyard and 1 car garage. For more information Contact or
Welcome to your new home in the vibrant Outer Drive-Hayes district of Detroit, MI. This charming rental offers not only convenience but also a welcoming ambiance that makes everyday living enjoyable. Situated close to a variety of delightful restaurants and department stores, you'll find everything you need just a short drive away. Healthcare is made easy as well, with Henry Ford St. John
Note: The home will be cleaned and necessary repairs will be done before a tenant moves in. Welcome to this charming home at 13067 Wade St in Detroit, MI! This inviting property offers a bright and comfortable living space perfect for everyday living. The living room features beautiful hardwood floors, a cozy fireplace, a convenient coat closet, and plenty of natural light that creates a warm and
ATTENTION - There will be absolutely NO showings and/or walk throughs prior to submission of required documentation for PRE-APPROVALS!!!Three Bedroom Brick dwelling -Don't miss out on this ready to move in beautiful and spacious, very clean, updated, freshly painted, with wall to wall carpeting. Fenced in yard, unfinished basement. Any applicant who does not meet the criteria
Updated brick bungalow available for rent in Detroit. This charming 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home features new carpet, refinished hardwood floors, new vinyl flooring, an updated kitchen, and fresh paint throughout.Beautifully refreshed and move-in ready with a classic bungalow layout and solid brick construction. Perfect for comfortable family living in a convenient Detroit location.Schedule
Check out this really nice cozy bottom unit on a very nice Street power floors kitchen with appliances bathroom and basement for plenty of storage space with a large backyard.
Excellent opportunity to run your own business. Many new updates including exterior paint, roof, eletctrical, plumbing, garage doors and more. Seller willing to finance Lease with Option to Buy or Land Contract. Subject property consists of a 4 bay auto related facility with ample onsite front and side lot parking for customer vehicles, plus a fenced in rear yard. Large lobby, private office,
Charming Brick Home with Attached Garage in Detroit's East Side Outer Drive-Hayes NeighborhoodWelcome to a spacious brick single-family home located in Detroit's desirable Outer Drive-Hayes/Conner area on the city's east side. This classic property offers approximately 1,750 sq. ft. of living space, featuring 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a family room, a partially finished basement, and an
$1,200 per month
Charming 3 bedroom/1.5 bath Brick Home - Now Available!
This charming property at 15857 Evanston is now ready for rent! This is the perfect home for a family. With much TLC, this home has been transformed into your dream home. The home features gray color scheme works amazing with the modern matte black fixtures, a small breakfast nook, and built ins throughout for added storage. It has beautiful new hardwood flooring in the main floor areas. One
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