Turning Negative Cash Flow into Positive Cash Flow

[Phillip Gasper]

Good Evening everyone,

I am currently working on investing in my first house hack.  I have been approved for a conventional loan at 3%. My price range has allowed me to analyze properties in areas I actually want to live in.  However, during the analyzation process, I can't seem to gain a positive cash flow.

A majority of the homes are duplexes, so I would live in one and rent the other.  The rent income isn't enough to break me even or generate a positive cash flow.  A real estate advisor told me I could have a friend live with me or possibly do an air bnb.  

My question to the group is, even though I would be generating a negative cash flow, is that bad?  What other options do I have.  I understand trying to find a triplex or fourplex but they are hard to come by.  

Thanks

[Tyler Gibson]

@Phillip Gasper It may not be bad. Will it decrease your overall living expenses? Will you be able to increase savings and position yourself for the next acquisition? if you moved out in a couple years would it cashflow? Too often these days people trying to house hack want to have positive cashflow and while it is possible it may not be in your area. Focus on the long term that is what a house hack is about. Long term focus is about reducing living expenses, increasing savings rate, and building equity.