Creative Ways to Start with $10–15K

[Stanley Yeldell]

Hey BP fam,

I’m a broker and I talk with a lot of new investors who feel like they’re “stuck” until they have 50–100K saved. But I’ve also seen people make real moves with much less — around $10–15K — especially in notes, partnerships, or creative financing plays.

I’m curious — for those of you who started with a smaller amount, what strategy did you use? And what would you avoid if you were starting over today?

[Ricardo R.]

Hey Stanley,

Love this question — $10–15K doesn’t sound like much to some folks, but honestly, it’s plenty to get started if you’re creative and patient. I started with about that, and here’s what actually moved the needle for me:

• House hacking: If you can qualify for a low-down FHA or 5% conventional loan, that 10–15K can get you into a small multi or even a single with a rentable room or basement. You're building equity and reducing your own living costs at the same time.

• Partnership flips: I’ve seen people put their 10–15K in as gap funding or finishing capital for a flip, splitting profits with the main investor. Just make sure it’s with someone experienced — or you’ll end up “partnering” on lessons, not profits.

• Seller financing or sub2 deals: In slower markets, 10–15K can be enough to cover arrears, closing costs, and a small seller down payment. You control the property without the big bank loan upfront.

What I wouldn’t do: dump it all into a “turnkey rental” or some guru course promising instant cash flow. You’ll end up owning something far away you can’t fix and can’t sell.

If you treat that 10–15K like seed money — to get experience and leverage relationships — it’s more powerful than waiting years to stack 100K; Stanley I really hope this helps you and your clients a bit, I sent you a DM on BP, it's one of the reasons I do this, I hope you can assist. Thank you.