This marks one of the largest residential-related investments made by a minority woman in Sandusky’s history.
Mary Giles Realtor, North Bay Realty congratulates Mercedez Pickens on her recent investment.
WRITTEN BY ANDY OURIEL - SANDUSKY REGISTER, MAY 4th, 2024
SANDUSKY — A businesswoman recently made the biggest addition to her expanding empire. And it’s also a huge step forward, she said, in offering local residents with affordable options amid a housing crisis affecting many nationwide. Through her property management company, P5ive Properties, Mercedez Pickens acquired a residential complex known as Camp Street Townhomes & Apartments. On Camp Street, it’s located just south of the Sandusky Amtrak station. She’s the sole investor of the property, totaling about $1.65 million in purchase price.
Her realtor, Mary Giles of North Bay Realty, noted this marks one of the largest residential-related investments made by a minority woman in Sandusky’s history. Camp Street Townhomes & Apartments represents the latest residential-related investment made by Pickens in Sandusky. She's purchased multiple properties leading up to her latest commitment. Pickens credited her support network — which consists of her husband, DeRon Pickens, and property manager, LaRone Knight — with helping her make this investment.
“Purchasing this 30-unit complex is not only a major milestone for my real estate portfolio, but I also plan on bringing things similar to this to our community,” said Pickens, noting the 30 units encompass six townhomes. “I don’t want to announce them just yet, but good things are coming.” Among the initial tasks Pickens wants to tackle revolve around making sorely needed upgrades across the property for quality-of-life purposes. She seeks to elevate the experience for tenants calling this property home. “We are currently discussing renovation costs based on each project,” said Pickens, a 2006 Sandusky High School graduate. “We are discussing exterior renovations, of which we are very excited about, along with making improvements within the building walls.”
