Rehab my current home or buy a 2nd property to BRRRR

[Diana Ilas]

Hello

I'm really eager to start . Not sure whether to rehab my current home , maybe make it a 2 family , or add square footage to add equity … or buy a 2nd property to BRRR

thank you very much 

[Laura Navaquin]

Hi Diana, 

I love your enthusiasm as for most of us,....getting started is often the hardest part, but it’s also the most exciting! I've been investing in real estate for nearly a decade now, and I’ve found that the best next step is always rooted in your goals, timeline, and access to capital,not just what sounds like the best strategy on paper.

Here are a few thoughts to help guide your decision:

If your current home has equity potential, through adding square footage, converting to a legal two-family, or even creating a separate entrance/in-law suite, this can be a smart way to build value with less risk. You're already familiar with the area, and you avoid closing costs and carrying two mortgages. That said, zoning, permits, and construction costs are key factors to evaluate closely here.

This strategy can be incredibly powerful for building long-term wealth. I've personally used BRRRR to scale my own portfolio, scaling form 4 to 21 doors in 17 months. If you're comfortable taking on renovations and have access to capital (cash, HELOC, or private lending), this could offer faster scalability and cash flow, especially in landlord-friendly markets where purchase prices and rents create strong returns.

If you have the equity in your primary home, consider a HELOC to tap into that value and fund your first BRRRR deal. This way, your home becomes a financial tool without needing to move or renovate right away and you can still revisit adding value to your primary residence later.

Happy to help you evaluate the numbers or connect you with tools and resources to run your scenarios side by side. You’re closer than you think, just one strategic move away from building real momentum!