First time house hacker- where to begin?

Question

My partner and I are looking to begin our house hacking journey fall of 2027. We're from Boston and are hoping to move to either the Denver area, Austin, or Albuquerque. I'd like to speak to someone about our finances to see what kind of multifamily house we can afford in each city. What is the best way to go about this? Reaching out to a lender? Appreciate any advice!

Ryan Corbeil · Answer

Connecting with people who have successful experience is important. Be mindful that some have incentive to sell you on a certain decision. So cross-reference their information.
I purchased a large househack in 2023. Lived in it sharing the kitchen, living room and laundry until 2025 and filled with tenants. My advice would be to get very clear (and conservative) on what your monthly expenses will be (mortgage, interest, taxes, insurance, utilities, cleaning, landscaping and maintenance to name a handful) for each specific market. Getting quotes is arduous but without it you could be surprised. Usually these costs are more expensive than agents make it seem. And they continue to go up. Especially hiring contractors for work if you aren't making repairs yourself.
My approach was to focus on my costs being less than my total rents. This can be challenging in at least Denver, unless you are able to secure a competitive interest rate or make a large downpayment.

You mentioned doing this with your partner. Note that duplex and properties with ADUs usually command higher costs and make cashflow more of a challenge, but can balance the quality of living and privacy. Hope this helps.

Jonathan Greer · Answer

Hi Sarah,

Exciting journey ahead! Planning now puts you in a great position to make a smart investment when 2027 comes around.

I'd start by talking with a lender to understand your financing options and what you qualify for. After that, I'd begin building a team of professionals in the markets you're interested in—an investor-friendly agent, lender, and property management expert can all provide different perspectives.

One thing I always tell new investors is to think beyond the purchase. Consider who will manage the property, what rental demand looks like, and how you'll maximize the property's performance over time.

Out of curiosity, are you planning to house hack with a duplex, triplex, or fourplex? Happy to connect if you'd like to bounce around ideas—always enjoy talking strategy!

Wale Lawal · Answer

@Sarah Stimson

Since you’re still planning for 2027, I would begin with getting a loan from a financier that is dealing with owner-occupied multifamily buildings in order to learn what you can expect and what needs to be done in the following two years. Meanwhile, continue studying the deals in every market, learning the differences in terms of affordability and cash flow.

Good luck!

Mohammed Rahman · Answer

Hey Sarah,

I think your first step should be talking with a lender. They can review your finances, explain what loan programs you qualify for, and give you a realistic budget. Since you're considering house hacking, it's also important to work with someone who understands owner-occupied multifamily loans and how projected rental income may factor into your qualification.

Once you have your financing figured out, I'd connect with an agent in each market you're considering. They can help you compare neighborhoods, rental demand, and what your budget actually buys in Denver, Austin, and Albuquerque.

You're starting early, which is a huge advantage. It gives you plenty of time to strengthen your financial position before you're ready to buy.

Happy to answer any questions you have. Just reach out anytime. My DMs are always open!

Jeffrey Abraham · Answer

Yes, start by talking with a lender who has experience with house hacking and multifamily financing. Get pre-qualified, review your budget and loan options, then compare what you can afford in Denver, Austin, and Albuquerque. That will give you a realistic price range before you start shopping.

Minho Lee · Answer

I'd recommend reaching out to an investor-friendly lender and having them walk you through all of your financing options. Find out what your buy box looks like, what loan programs are available, and get pre-approved.

That way, when you find a property you like, you'll be in a position to submit an offer right away.

Caleb Brown · Answer

I'd start by talking to a lender. You can find those by googling, researching online. You can ask an agent who their go to lender is. You can also ask in FB groups. They will review your income, debts, and down payment to give you a purchase price and estimated monthly payment. Once you have that you can narrow down areas

Jens Nielsen · Answer

@Sarah Stimson

Albuquerque is probably the most affordable of the three cities you mentioned. You can probably find a duplex or fourplex, live in one and rent the other units.

However, Albuquerque has some challenging areas, so make sure you research where you buy very carefully.Jens

Ryan Spath · Answer

@Sarah Stimson

Yes reaching out to an investor friendly lender that understands this type of investing. If you like I can make an introduction to an investor friendly lender that can help you with this. Send me a DM with your email and I am happy to make the connection...

First time house hacker- where to begin?

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