Is it better to own or flip?

[Mike Schelske]

Howdy,

I started this journey looking a multi family property to maximize my VA loan but I am seeing that the market is influx and maybe owning property for long term isn't the best strategy. The way things are right now is it better to look for properties to flip or buy and hold?

[Melissa Justice]

@Mike Schelske,

Howdy! Great question and definitely one that a lot of investors are wrestling with right now.

While the market may feel unpredictable, buy-and-hold real estate is still one of the most reliable long-term wealth-building strategies, especially when you're using something as powerful as a VA loan to get started with little to no money down.

Flipping can generate quick cash, but it also comes with higher risk, active involvement, and exposure to shifting market conditions, especially with material and labor costs still fluctuating in many areas.

Holding, on the other hand, gives you:
Cash flow (especially in strong rental markets like the Southeast and Midwest)
Long-term appreciation
Tax advantages
And if you lock in a good interest rate now, you’re hedging against future inflation.

There are still solid cash-flowing deals in places like Birmingham, AL; Canton, OH; and parts of Georgia or Tennessee - markets where your VA loan can go further and buy-and-hold makes a lot of sense.

I’d lean toward starting with a property you can hold onto for at least 5–7 years. Let your equity grow while collecting rent and building your portfolio the smart way.

Happy to talk more if you're exploring specific markets!

Best of luck!