I Bought Property in Hilltop. Here’s Why I Think It’s One of Columbus’ Best Starter Neighborhoods
By Daclaud Lee, Artificer at The Arcane Foundry
When most people think about opening a business or buying their first home, Hilltop probably isn’t the first neighborhood that comes to mind. But after years of owning rental properties in the area, I’ve come to see opportunities that many people overlook. The same reasons I invested in Hilltop real estate are ultimately the reasons I chose to establish The Arcane Foundry here as well.
Why I Chose to Invest in The Hilltop
I’ve owned several single-family rental homes in Columbus’ Hilltop neighborhood for years, which has given me a unique perspective on both the opportunities and challenges of the area. When it came time to find a permanent headquarters for The Arcane Foundry, I saw many of the same advantages that originally drew me to invest there in the first place. Affordable real estate, a central location, and the ability to actually own property made Hilltop an attractive choice.
When I purchased my first rental property, I was a new investor and honestly wasn’t sure what I was doing. My income level at the time made neighborhoods like Dublin, Worthington, or Upper Arlington feel out of reach. Even if I could have afforded a property there, I worried that if I couldn’t find a tenant, I’d be stuck carrying a much larger mortgage payment. Hilltop seemed like the safer financial decision, even though it came with a reputation that scared many investors away.
What I discovered after buying that first property was that Hilltop wasn’t nearly as bad as people made it sound. Like any neighborhood, it has its challenges, but the reality was far different from the horror stories I often heard. Over time, I continued investing in the area, built relationships with the neighbors, and gained confidence in the neighborhood’s long-term potential.
My decision to establish The Arcane Foundry in The Hilltop wasn’t just about finding a building. It was about putting down roots in a community where I already had a long-term investment and a genuine connection. As both a landlord and business owner, I’ve seen firsthand why Hilltop remains one of Columbus’ most overlooked opportunities for first-time homebuyers, entrepreneurs, and real estate investors looking to build wealth through property ownership.
10 Reasons to Move to The Hilltop
Some of you might call me delusional or overly idealistic, but The Hilltop really isn’t that bad (this is coming from a guy who grew up in the Dublin and Powell area, and I went to Dublin Scioto High School). So, I really have no ties to the Hilltop at all. As a matter of fact, I used to think it was really “hood” and “ghetto” (not trying to offend anyone, just giving raw/real context of how I used to feel about it). I’m just trying to say that it’s not the gang infested war zone people think it is. But no, I’m fully aware that The Hilltop is never going to be Dublin or Powell and it’s not going to be Franklinton either for that matter, but Franklinton used to be worse than The Hilltop in reputation and look how much it improved.
I fully admit that The Hilltop has a reputation that causes many homebuyers to overlook it entirely, but there is often a big difference between perception and reality. After owning multiple properties in the neighborhood and spending years exploring the neighborhoods, I’ve seen firsthand both the challenges and the opportunities that exist. If you’re looking for an affordable starter home in Columbus, here are 10 reasons why The Hilltop deserves a closer look.
1. One of the Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Columbus
For many first-time homebuyers, affordability is the biggest obstacle to homeownership. The Hilltop remains one of the few neighborhoods in Columbus where buyers can still find homes at prices that don’t require a six-figure income. Lower purchase prices also mean lower mortgage payments, making it easier for younger buyers to get their foot in the door.
Houses can start around $125,000 (sometimes less).
2. You’re Closer to Everything Than You Think
One of Hilltop’s biggest advantages is its location. Downtown Columbus is only minutes away, and Franklinton’s growing arts district is practically next door. German Village is also surprisingly accessible via Mound Street. Many neighborhoods with similar home prices require much longer commutes and don’t offer the same level of access to Columbus’ major attractions and employment centers.
3. The Neighborhood Continues to Improve
I’m not going to pretend Hilltop doesn’t have challenges. Crime and drug activity have been issues for decades. However, there are signs of progress. A new police substation is being developed, community organizations remain active, and both public and private investment continue to enter the area. Neighborhood improvement doesn’t happen overnight, but the direction of travel matters.
4. Problem Properties Are Finally Being Held Accountable
For years, certain problem businesses and properties were allowed to operate with little oversight. Today, city officials and enforcement agencies are paying closer attention. Properties that generate repeated complaints, nuisance activity, and safety concerns are increasingly being cited and forced to clean up their operations. Accountability helps improve quality of life for everyone in the neighborhood.
Some examples of nuisance properties and businesses that have faced increased scrutiny and enforcement actions from the City of Columbus include:
While each situation is different, these cases demonstrate a broader effort by the City of Columbus to address properties associated with repeated complaints, code violations, public safety concerns, or nuisance activity. The goal is not necessarily to shut businesses down, but to ensure they operate responsibly, follow the law, maintain their properties, and avoid creating problems for the surrounding community. Increased enforcement helps create a safer and more stable environment for residents, homeowners, and business owners who are committed to improving the neighborhood.
5. Ohio Has Made Progress Against the Opioid Crisis
Ohio was hit hard by the opioid epidemic, but significant progress has been made over the past several years through expanded treatment programs, law enforcement efforts, public awareness campaigns, and recovery initiatives. While challenges remain, the situation is far better than it was at its peak. Continued investment in treatment and recovery is helping stabilize communities throughout the state.
In 2024, Governor Mike DeWine continues to handle the opioid crisis.
6. Hilltop Feels Like a Modern Frontier
Hilltop is one of Columbus’ oldest neighborhoods, but in many ways it still feels like a frontier. There is tremendous opportunity for people willing to invest their time, money, and energy into the community. Some of Columbus’ most successful neighborhoods were once considered undesirable. History shows that neighborhoods can change dramatically when enough residents and property owners commit to making them better.
In early America, the frontier was often viewed as an opportunity rather than a problem. It attracted people looking for affordable land, a fresh start, and the chance to build something of their own. While Hilltop is certainly not a wilderness, it offers a similar opportunity for homebuyers and investors who are willing to see potential where others only see challenges. As conditions improve and investment continues, those who got in early may ultimately benefit the most.
7. Good Landlords and Homeowners Make a Difference
Every quality homeowner and responsible landlord who invests in the neighborhood contributes to its future. Well-maintained homes attract stable residents, increase property values, and encourage additional investment. Poorly managed properties create problems for everyone. The more good people who buy homes and improve them, the stronger the neighborhood becomes.
8. Law Enforcement Continues to Target Problem Properties
Over the years, many of the neighborhood’s most notorious drug houses and nuisance properties have been shut down through law enforcement efforts. Organizations, community groups, and residents continue to work together to identify problem locations and improve public safety. While there is still work to do, many longtime residents will tell you the neighborhood is very different from what it was years ago.
Another encouraging development is the work being done by community organizations such as Securban Living. The nonprofit actively supports neighborhood safety initiatives, including providing free security cameras to residents and property owners to help monitor and deter illegal activity. Efforts like these demonstrate that many people are actively invested in improving the neighborhood and creating a safer environment for everyone.
9. Historic Homes With Character
Hilltop contains many homes built during the early 1900s, offering architectural details and craftsmanship that are difficult to find in newer construction. Front porches, hardwood floors, mature trees, and unique floor plans give many Hilltop homes a sense of character that stands out from modern subdivisions. For buyers who appreciate historic homes, Hilltop offers significant value.
10. Most of the Neighbors Are Good People
One of the biggest surprises for me after buying properties in Hilltop was how friendly many of the neighbors were. Whenever I purchased a new property, I would spend weeks or months renovating it. During that time, neighbors would often stop by to introduce themselves, ask questions about the project, or simply welcome me to the block. Most residents want the same thing: safer streets, better-maintained properties, and a stronger neighborhood. As more responsible homeowners, investors, and families move into the area, those positive influences continue to grow.