Multi Family investing / House Hacking in Western Washington

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Multi Family investing / House Hacking in Western Washington

Dewey Lybecker
New to Real Estate · Honolulu, HI · Member since 2020 · 5 posts · 2 votes

I'm brand new to this whole thing and I'm working on getting my focus crystal clear. I've been looking near 6th Ave in Tacoma and north from there, because from what I've seen young families are moving to that area. Is there anything I should be aware of when looking at multi-families in that area? Or should I look into a different area completely? Thanks for any knowledge anyone has, I appreciate you all!

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Michael HaasBusiness Member
Real Estate Agent · Sammamish, 🌧️ Seattle Investor-Agent | 🤑 Helped 400+ Clients Invest in Real Estate | 🏘️ Owns 23 WA Rentals & Airbnbs | 🏗️ Built 5 DADU's | 📈 You Can Do It Too · Member since 2016 · 725 posts · 3k+ votes
6y

Both sides of 6th ave are definitely "good" parts of Tacoma, but the north side is definitely nicer. The University of Puget Sound has a pretty strong influence on that neighborhood, and the neighborhoods within 10 blocks of UPS are some of the nicest in Tacoma. There are some true, separately metered multi families in that area, but there are also many converted single families, often times with an additional unit created through undetermined work. Check Realist or City/County tax records for "zoning" and "county land use" to see if the "duplex" you're looking at is actually a duplex in the eyes of the city, or whether its actually a modified single family home.

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  • Michael HaasBusiness Member
    Real Estate Agent · Sammamish, 🌧️ Seattle Investor-Agent | 🤑 Helped 400+ Clients Invest in Real Estate | 🏘️ Owns 23 WA Rentals & Airbnbs | 🏗️ Built 5 DADU's | 📈 You Can Do It Too · Member since 2016 · 725 posts · 3k+ votes
    6y

    Both sides of 6th ave are definitely "good" parts of Tacoma, but the north side is definitely nicer. The University of Puget Sound has a pretty strong influence on that neighborhood, and the neighborhoods within 10 blocks of UPS are some of the nicest in Tacoma. There are some true, separately metered multi families in that area, but there are also many converted single families, often times with an additional unit created through undetermined work. Check Realist or City/County tax records for "zoning" and "county land use" to see if the "duplex" you're looking at is actually a duplex in the eyes of the city, or whether its actually a modified single family home.

    [email protected]408-439-7873
    HouseHack Seattle | Michael Haas & Team572 Reviews
    WebsiteView Page
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  • Dewey Lybecker
    OP
    New to Real Estate · Honolulu, HI · Member since 2020 · 5 posts · 2 votes
    6y

    @Michael Haas Great knowledge, as I’ve seen many homes converted. Thanks again!

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  • Scott S.
    Tacoma, WA · Member since 2014 · 78 posts · 92 votes
    6y

    North End of Tacoma is by far the most desirable = most expensive obviously.  There are some great blocks just south of 6th Ave, primarily around the Central area down to the S. 19th st.  The elementary schools take quite a dip in scores and appeal once you cross on the south side of 6th Ave.  Tenant quality will be much higher in the North End.  

    The main issue will be multi-family options. Right now, there is only 1 available in the entire North End (4-plex) on the MLS. It's right across the st from UPS and just came back on the market the other day. https://www.redfin.com/WA/Taco...

    Not sure what your budget is but I'm guessing a house hack with a SFH will be far easier and financially within reach vs a multi-family building in the North End. An updated, clean SFH north of 6th Ave can easily get $700-$800/mo per bedroom.

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  • Aaron NelsonBusiness Member
    Real Estate Agent · Seattle, WA · Member since 2016 · 307 posts · 191 votes
    6y

    Hi @Dewey Lybecker - I think it really depends on your goals and what you're looking to accomplish. Like any city, Tacoma has lots of neighborhoods, each with different pro's/con's and a different feel. I see you are from Hawaii. When are you moving to Tacoma? 

    [email protected]425-880-2580
    White Coat Realty535 Reviews
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