What would you do in my shoes?

[Ethan Price]

Hi everyone,

I’m just getting started on my real estate investing journey and am aiming to buy my first property within the next year. I’m primarily investing for long-term wealth, with the goal of achieving financial freedom by the time I’m 40 (I’m currently 23).

Like many, I've heard over and over that house hacking is the best way to get started—and based on what I've learned so far, I tend to agree. However, I recently became a licensed real estate agent (about 3 months ago), and I know that may temporarily impact my ability to qualify for traditional financing like an FHA loan with 3.5% down on a multifamily property.

So here’s where I’d love your input:

• What other methods of financing or raising capital should I explore (DSCR loans, private money lenders, partnerships, etc.)?

• Are there any alternative strategies you’d recommend for someone in my position—new investor, newly licensed agent, and focused on getting that first deal within 12 months?

Thank you! :)

[Caleb Brown]

As a newly licensed agent I would focus on building that business. It takes time to have consistent closings and deals. Once you have some income/savings hard money and private money is great to get a fixer upper. Once it's fixed up you can flip or refi into a DSCR loan. When you are getting these commissions stock them away in a high interest savings account, don't be tempted to spend it all. Also keep in mind taxes, many agents forget that ;)