How to Start Real Estate Investing with House Hacking

By Dana Monson

My team and I are expert real estate agents with Keller Williams in Marysville, WA and serve the greater Puget Sound area, providing home-buyers and sellers with professional, responsive, and attentive real estate services since 2004. Want an agent who'll really listen to what you want in a home? Need an agent who knows how to effectively market your home so it sells? Give us a call! We are eager to help and would love to talk to you.

Recently, I had an enlightening conversation with Kirstin Ward from Movement Mortgage about an increasingly popular real estate investment strategy known as “house hacking.” This approach can significantly reduce the financial barriers typically associated with purchasing investment properties.

House hacking involves buying a multi-unit property, living in one unit, and renting out the others. This can be an excellent entry point into real estate investment, especially for first-time homebuyers or those looking to minimize their living expenses. Kirstin highlighted a fantastic benefit of this strategy: while typically an investment property might require a 25% down payment, house hacking allows you to put down as little as 3.5% with an FHA loan or 5% with a conventional loan, provided it’s your primary residence.

The financial implications of house hacking are compelling. By living in one unit and renting out the others, you can potentially cover all or most of your mortgage payment through rental income. This arrangement not only makes homeownership more affordable but also allows you to build equity in a property that generates income. For those worried about the cost of a mortgage, this setup can alleviate much of that financial pressure.

Imagine the possibility of living virtually rent-free while your tenants pay down your mortgage. You could live in the property for a required period, such as a year, and then move out, turning the property into a full investment property with even greater rental income potential. This strategy not only provides immediate financial relief but also sets the stage for future investments.

House hacking is particularly attractive for young investors or those looking to get a foothold in the real estate market without significant upfront capital. It’s a practical way to gain investment experience while also securing your living situation. Even if rental income doesn’t completely cover the mortgage, the financial benefits of reduced living expenses and equity growth can be substantial.

If you’re intrigued by the idea of house hacking or simply interested in exploring real estate investment opportunities, reaching out for professional advice is a great first step. Whether you’re buying your first home or looking to invest, understanding all your options can help you make the best decision for your financial future.

For more insights on real estate investment strategies like house hacking, or if you need guidance on buying your first home, call or email us. We’re here to help you navigate your real estate journey and achieve your investment goals.