If u could move to your dream househack market, where would u go?

[Caroline S.]

Aloha everyone. Newbie here. I'm  looking to make my first purchase also. Not so sure which way to go, househack or turn-key. Next year in 2018 Ill be able to leave DC area and take my job with me where I can go househack somewhere in a great market. Where oh where should i go?Again,this isnt until next year. But-- I'm so jazzed about achieving financial freedom within 10 years that i dont want to wait.  So which market should i do turnkey for now?  I am very new so I pray my first experience is a good one. 

Also, If you were just starting out, and you had the opportunity to move to your house hack dream market, and take your current job with you which you will need to build downpayments while you HH, where would you go?

So far Ive looked at Kansas City, Memphis, Indianapolis, San Antonio, Clearwater. Ive looked everywherrre. I'd like to zero-in on an area or direction as I am all over the map. Theres so much to learn!  

Many thanks, Caroline

[Douglas Larson]

Aloha Caroline.

Only you will know what's best for you but I will throw in my 2 cents.

I have lived in some great places including San Diego, Oahu, Maui, Western Colorado, Minnesota, and a few cities in Utah. I have owned investment property and house-hacked on Maui (5 homes), San Diego ( 5 homes - the most recent flip was ), and about 75 or so homes and condos in Utah. I also speculate on a lot of land in Utah. 

Here are some things I have learned:

1. You can find good opportunities anywhere but enjoying where you live is crucial.

2. Managing rentals more than 30 minutes away is difficult, especially for newer investors.

3. House-hacking is a great way to start investing.

4. Single family homes are the easiest to sell when you want to or need to. 

5. You are not "throwing money away" if you just want to rent for 6 months or a year and try someplace out.

Hope that helps!  Have fun!!!