Expert Insights from Local REALTOR® Thomas Torkelson

Real estate investing is one of the most powerful ways to build wealth — not just nationally, but right here in Johnston County, including fast-growing communities like Clayton, Smithfield, Garner, and Selma. With job growth booming across the Raleigh area and families relocating for affordability and lifestyle, this region continues to offer strong returns and long-term stability for investors.

Whether you want passive income from rental properties or the fast turnaround of fix-and-flip investing, there are more ways than ever to get started. And you don’t have to figure it out alone — local expert REALTOR® Thomas Torkelson (Century 21 Triangle Group) has helped countless buyers and investors build a smarter real estate portfolio.

Let’s dive into the 9 most effective real estate investing strategies beginners can use in Johnston County today.

Why Invest in Johnston County Real Estate?

Before we explore strategies, here’s why investors are focusing on this area:

Affordable entry prices compared to Raleigh & Wake County
Rapid population growth — demand for rentals remains high
Strong job market — thanks to Triangle proximity
Tax benefits for landlords
Appreciation & stable long-term value
Ability to leverage investment capital using mortgages & financing

You can build equity while earning monthly income — a double win.

1️⃣ Buy-and-Hold Rental Properties

The most popular long-term strategy in Clayton and Smithfield.

Why it works here:

Rentals are in high demand due to relocation growth
Affordable single-family homes = strong cash flow
Rents often rise with inflation, but mortgages do not

Example types of residential rentals:

Single-family homes near schools
New construction investment properties
Small duplexes and triplexes

Who it’s best for:

Investors planning long-term wealth and passive income.

2️⃣ Fix-and-Flip Housing

You’ve seen the shows on HGTV — this is the fast-profit route.

Flippers in Johnston County typically target:

Older homes needing cosmetic updates
Properties below market value
Distressed or inherited properties

Profit comes from the after-repair value (ARV) vs. purchase + renovation cost.

Who it’s best for:

Investors with renovation knowledge or access to reliable contractors.

3️⃣ Wholesale Real Estate Deals

Wholesalers find undervalued homes, put them under contract, and assign the contract to another investor — often for a few thousand dollars profit.

You don’t even take ownership of the home.

Who it’s for:

Beginners with hustle
Low-cash investors
Anyone learning the market hands-on

This is also a great way to build relationships with investors — including pros like Thomas Torkelson, who regularly evaluates deals.

4️⃣ House Hacking (Live-In Investing)

Rent part of your property to cover your mortgage.

Popular examples here:

Rent out spare rooms to workers at Novo Nordisk, Grifols, or UNC Health Johnston
Buy a duplex, live in one side and rent the other

Best way for first-timers to get started with low risk.

5️⃣ Short-Term & Mid-Term Rentals

Airbnb and furnished rentals remain strong in areas near:

I-40 commuter routes
Corporate employment centers
Hospitals (travel-nurse housing!)

Many investors in Clayton and Wilson’s Mills are exploring mid-term rentals for 30–90 day stays — high return, lower daily turnover.

6️⃣ Real Estate Crowdfunding

Want real estate returns without landlord duties?

Crowdfunding platforms allow smaller investments into:

Apartment complexes
Commercial real estate
Flips and development projects

Minimal involvement. Diversified returns.

7️⃣ REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts)

These are the stock market version of real estate, allowing you to invest in portfolios of:

Housing communities
Office buildings
Retail centers

Public REITs are highly liquid and require very little capital.

8️⃣ Opportunity Zone Funds

Parts of North Carolina — including revitalization areas near downtown Smithfield — may qualify as Opportunity Zones.

Advantages:

Tax incentives
Revitalizing targeted communities
Strong long-term upside if the area booms

Best for investors with larger capital.

9️⃣ Private Financing / Investor Partnerships

Know someone flipping homes or buying rentals locally?

You can be the lender, earning interest backed by real property.

This takes trust and a professional contract — something Thomas Torkelson can help you evaluate wisely.

How to Choose the Right Strategy

Ask yourself three questions:

1️⃣ Do you want passive income or quick profits?

2️⃣ How hands-on do you want to be?

3️⃣ How much capital can you invest to start?

Thomas works closely with first-time investors, helping them:

Analyze cash flow
Compare cap rates
Understand renovation costs
Find the best ROI neighborhoods in Clayton & Johnston County

Your strategy can evolve as your portfolio grows — you can start small and build big.

Where Should You Invest in Johnston County?

Some top areas investors love:

✔ Clayton — massive growth, great rents, constant demand

✔ Smithfield — revitalization and affordability

✔ Selma — expansion along rail & highway corridors

✔ Archer Lodge & Cleveland area — suburban appeal near Raleigh

✔ Wilson’s Mills — strong new construction opportunities

Every neighborhood has different risks and reward profiles — having a local market expert matters.

🎯 Final Word: Build Wealth Where You Live

Real estate investing doesn’t require:

A fortune to start
Years of experience
Full-time involvement

It only requires the right guidance.

Whether you’re thinking rentals, flipping, or house-hacking, Johnston County is a phenomenal market to plant your investment roots — and Thomas Torkelson is ready to help you get your first win.

9 Ways to Start Investing in Real Estate in Clayton, Smithfield & Johnston County