The goal of house-hacking is to eventually rent out the unit you live in, when you scale your portfolio by buying the next rental.

In a perfect world, I’d live in the smaller unit and rent out the larger one, or maybe even run an Airbnb if the property makes senseI’m looking for a mix of cash flow and stability/appreciation.

I acquired a 60 k heloc loan and I'm interested in scaling my business even though I don't live in WI anymore.

Most people rush in with no roadmap.Since you’re a first-time buyer and plan to live in one unit, you’re in the perfect position to use house-hacking to build wealth safely.

Living with housemates who pay most of your mortgage is the best way to get going.

@Jack Hamm  not living there it really depends on the location and your tolerance for the management of this type of arrangement.

Provided the house hack reduces your overall living expenses while living there AND cash flows upon moving out, I’d say move forward.Looking forward to seeing your success!

Could you get a HELOC while you still live there for $200k? 

Can you live in one unit, fix it up, and then charge more rent when you move to another unit and repeat?

Given that you're near NYC, I'd imagine, there'd be a lot of newer professionals looking for a place to live so there should be no shortage.Id connect with other local investors that do rent by the room to see what they do for furnishings.