Seeking Advice on First Investment Property in Puerto Rico — Exploring HELOC & TSP

[Jeremy Erazo]

Hi everyone,

I’m a resident of Puerto Rico looking to acquire my first investment property on the island. I currently own my primary residence, and fortunately, its value has appreciated by around $70,000 to $80,000 since I purchased it.

At the moment, I don’t have the liquid capital to cover a down payment, so I’m exploring alternative funding options. I’ve recently learned about the possibility of using a HELOC, and I’m also a federal employee with available funds in my TSP (Thrift Savings Plan). I understand it’s possible to take out a loan from the TSP for this purpose, and I’m considering that route as well.

I would greatly appreciate any advice on how to start moving forward — whether it’s about financing strategies, choosing the right type of property, or connecting with professionals who have experience investing in Puerto Rico. If anyone here has gone through a similar journey, especially in PR, I’d love to hear your insights.

Thank you in advance for any guidance you can provide!

[Aaron T.]

Quote from @Jeremy Erazo:

Hi everyone,

I’m a resident of Puerto Rico looking to acquire my first investment property on the island. I currently own my primary residence, and fortunately, its value has appreciated by around $70,000 to $80,000 since I purchased it.

At the moment, I don't have the liquid capital to cover a down payment, so I'm exploring alternative funding options. I've recently learned about the possibility of using a HELOC, and I'm also a federal employee with available funds in my TSP (Thrift Savings Plan). I understand it's possible to take out a loan from the TSP for this purpose, and I'm considering that route as well.

I would greatly appreciate any advice on how to start moving forward — whether it’s about financing strategies, choosing the right type of property, or connecting with professionals who have experience investing in Puerto Rico. If anyone here has gone through a similar journey, especially in PR, I’d love to hear your insights.

Thank you in advance for any guidance you can provide!

Yes, you can take out a loan on your TSP. log in an go to the loan section and its a small fee and interest back to you each month the loan is out. If you are a Civil service and in uniform you can take out a loan on each.

HELOC is not really a thing on the island, you may find private money to do it, but its limited to nonexistent with the banks or COOPs.

Another option is a VA loan if you served in uniform at any time. a VA loan will pay for a 1-4 unit with no money down.