Kenwick

Lexington, KY

Neighborhood Market Analysis

Q3 2025 Report
$538,975 (Kenwick/Bell Court, April 2025)
Median Home Price
High (estimated 75–80/100)—most errands can be accomplished on foot.
Walkability Score
Public schools are generally well-rated, with Ashland Elementary and Henry Clay High considered strong choices.
School Rating

Location Overview

Neighborhood Boundaries

Generally bounded by Richmond Road to the north, Sherman Avenue to the east, and Owsley Avenue to the south and west. Adjacent to Chevy Chase and Ashland Park.

Zip Codes

4050240508

Market Data Summary

Price RangeMost homes range from $400,000 to $650,000, with some outliers below and above this range.
Price per Sq FtApproximately $275–$325/sq ft (estimate based on median price and typical home sizes)
Inventory LevelsVacancy rate is 10.7%, higher than average, indicating some year-round vacancies or new construction not yet absorbed. Inventory is moderate, with occasional competition for move-in-ready homes.

Property Characteristics

Home Types & Architecture

Home Types

Single-family homesSmall apartment complexesHigh-rise apartments

Architectural Styles

CraftsmanBungalowColonial RevivalEarly 20th-century vernacular

Property Details

Typical Lot Sizes0.10–0.25 acres, with some larger lots on corner parcels.
Home Age RangeMost homes built between 1900–1939, with some from 1940–1969 and occasional newer infill.
Construction QualityGenerally solid, with many homes featuring original hardwoods, built-ins, and period details. Renovated homes often have modern systems and finishes.

Community Profile

Demographics & Lifestyle

Demographics

Mix of long-term residents (many 50+ years), young professionals, and families. Median income above 53.8% of US neighborhoods. Increasing diversity as younger buyers move in.

Community Vibe

Close-knit, historic, and neighborly. Residents host porch concerts, block parties, and support local businesses. Blend of tradition and youthful energy.

Typical Residents

  • Young professionals
  • Families with children
  • Retirees
  • University staff and students

Family Friendly

Yes—active neighborhood association, community garden, and frequent family events. Children often seen playing and neighbors socialize regularly.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Parks & Recreation

  • Kenwick Community Center
  • Johnson Heights Park
  • Community garden

Dining Options

  • Liberty Road Cafe
  • Big Kahuna Hawaiian BBQ
  • Sakura 12 Japanese Restaurant

Shopping Centers

  • Lexington Peddler’s Mall
  • Small local shops; larger centers nearby on Richmond Road

Local Businesses

  • Carpenter Collectibles
  • Lexington Peddler’s Mall
  • Liberty Road Cafe

Education & Schools

Public schools are generally well-rated, with Ashland Elementary and Henry Clay High considered strong choices.
Overall School Rating

Elementary Schools

  • Ashland Elementary

Middle Schools

  • Lexington Traditional Magnet School

High Schools

  • Henry Clay High School

Private Schools

  • Sayre School (nearby)
  • Lexington Catholic High School (nearby)

Transportation & Accessibility

Transit & Roads

Public Transit

  • Lextran bus routes 9 and 10

Major Roads

  • Richmond Road
  • New Circle Road

Commute & Walkability

Commute Times10–15 minutes to downtown Lexington; 5–10 minutes to University of Kentucky.
WalkabilityHigh—sidewalks throughout, easy access to parks and shops.
ParkingOn-street parking is common; some homes have driveways or small garages. Occasional congestion during events.

Marketing Intelligence

Target Buyer Types

  • Young professionals
  • University staff/students
  • Families seeking walkability
  • Historic home enthusiasts

Key Selling Points

  • Historic architecture
  • Active, friendly community
  • Walkable to shops, dining, parks, and UK
  • Strong school options

Pricing Considerations

Price competitively for condition and updates; renovated homes command a premium. Stale listings often due to overpricing or deferred maintenance.

Common Objections & Response Strategies

Objection: Older homes may have maintenance issues or lack modern amenities.

Response Strategy:

Provide inspection reports, highlight recent upgrades, and offer home warranty options.

Objection: Smaller lot sizes and limited parking.

Response Strategy:

Emphasize walkability, community amenities, and available on-street parking solutions.

Objection: Higher price point compared to some Lexington neighborhoods.

Response Strategy:

Showcase appreciation trends, rental demand, and unique lifestyle benefits.

Investment Insights

Investment Potential

Appreciation Potential

Strong, driven by demand for historic homes and proximity to downtown and UK. Outpaces many Lexington neighborhoods.

Rental Demand

High, especially among students, young professionals, and university staff. Average rent $1,444/month (April 2025).

Buyer Competition

Moderate to high for renovated homes; less for fixer-uppers or homes needing updates.

Best For

  • Young professionals
  • Families
  • Investors seeking stable appreciation
  • Buyers wanting historic character

Potential Concerns

  • Older homes may require ongoing maintenance
  • Some homes lack modern layouts or large yards
  • Vacancy rate slightly above average

Professional Recommendations

1

Leverage neighborhood events and community stories in marketing.

2

Network with local businesses and the neighborhood association for referrals.

3

Educate buyers on historic home ownership and available incentives.

4

Stage homes to highlight both period charm and modern updates.

5

Monitor inventory closely and price aggressively for condition.

Competitive Analysis

Comparable Markets

  • Chevy Chase
  • Ashland Park
  • Fairway-Liberty Heights

Market Positioning

Kenwick is positioned as a historic, walkable, and community-oriented alternative to pricier nearby neighborhoods.

Competitive Advantages

  • Lower entry price than Chevy Chase/Ashland Park
  • Stronger appreciation and walkability than Fairway-Liberty Heights

Price Comparison

Median home price is lower than Chevy Chase/Ashland Park ($700K+), higher than Fairway-Liberty Heights ($223K median).

Investment Metrics

Estimated 4.5–5.5% for well-maintained rental properties
Cap Rates
Gross yields around 5–6% based on average rents and home prices
Rental Yields
Approximately 31–33 (higher than average for Lexington, reflecting strong appreciation)
Price-to-Rent
Positive cash flow possible with strategic purchase and management, especially for multi-unit or updated properties.
Cash Flow
Continued steady appreciation expected, especially for renovated homes and those with unique historic features.
Appreciation

Buyer Journey Insights

First-Time Buyers

Appealing for those seeking character and community, but may require education on older home maintenance.

Move-Up Buyers

Attractive for buyers upgrading from condos/apartments, especially families seeking schools and walkability.

Downsizers

Some interest from retirees seeking walkable, low-maintenance living, though lot/home sizes may be smaller than desired.

Investors

Strong rental demand and appreciation, but careful property selection is key for cash flow.

Relocators

Popular with those moving for UK or downtown jobs; highlight lifestyle and convenience.

This neighborhood analysis was generated using hyperlocal data and AI intelligence.

Neighborhood conditions change - consult with local real estate professionals for the most current information.

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