Grove Family Investments

Getting into real estate can feel like a huge leap, especially if you’re young, inexperienced, and financially strapped. You’re probably wondering: How do I afford a property? Where do I even begin? The good news? You don’t need to be a millionaire or have years of experience to get started. House hacking is hands down one of the best strategies for young investors looking to break into real estate—and it’s a lot simpler than you might think.

What Is House Hacking?

House hacking is when you buy a property, live in part of it, and rent out the rest to cover your mortgage (or even turn a profit). Think of it as living for free—or close to it—while building wealth.

The best part? Government-backed loans, like FHA loans, make it ridiculously easy for first-time buyers to purchase small multifamily properties (duplexes, triplexes, or quadplexes) with little money down.

Here’s the deal:

• You can buy with as little as 3.5% down. (Yes, really!)
• The loan terms are long-term and fixed, meaning you lock in a stable monthly payment.
• The property can be up to four units as long as you live in one of them.

So, if you’re flexible about where you live and willing to share your space (or just the building), house hacking can get you into real estate investing for almost nothing upfront.

Why House Hacking Makes So Much Sense

1. Your Tenants Pay the Mortgage

Imagine this: You buy a four-unit property. You live in one unit and rent out the other three. The rent from those three units helps cover your mortgage. In many cases, it’s enough to eliminate your housing costs entirely—or even put a little extra cash in your pocket every month. In other words, you live for free.

2. You’re Building Equity (for Free)

Every time your tenants pay rent, they’re helping you pay down the mortgage, which builds your equity in the property. That’s money you can tap into later to buy more properties or invest in other opportunities.

3. You’re Learning the Business as You Go

Managing a property, dealing with tenants, and keeping up with maintenance teaches you the ropes of real estate investing. It’s hands-on experience you can’t get from reading books or listening to podcasts. By the time you’re ready to scale up, you’ll already have the skills and confidence to tackle bigger investments.

4. It’s a Launchpad for Your Portfolio

The beauty of house hacking is that it’s a stepping stone. Once you’ve lived in the property for a year (a requirement for FHA loans), you can move out, keep it as a rental, and buy another one. Just and rinse and repeat. Before you know it, you’ll have a portfolio of cash-flowing properties.

What’s the Catch?

Let’s be real: House hacking does require some sacrifices. You might have less privacy than you’re used to, or you might have to make small compromises on your living situation. But think about it—what’s a little discomfort compared to the opportunity to live rent-free, build wealth, and set yourself up for financial independence?

If you’re young, flexible, and willing to hustle a bit, house hacking is a no-brainer.

Ready to Get Started?

If this sounds like something you’d like to explore, let’s connect! I share tips like this regularly on social media, so make sure to follow me (links are below).

And if you’re ready to take the next step, schedule a free consultation with me. We’ll talk about your goals, walk through the numbers, and figure out how to get you into your first property. You don’t have to do this alone—I’m here to help.