House Hacking, Only if I live for free?

[CherTong Her]

I'm looking to house hack, but everywhere I'm seeing typically says I need to cash flow in order to "successfully" house hack. Do I absolutely need to pay zero dollars for all my expenses to "successfully" house hack or can I still pay a portion of my mortgage to be on my way to freedom? I'm literally days away from potentially buying and would appreciate some help. Some numbers below 260k Duplex 2bed1bath each side Mortgage - 1750 @ FHA 3.5% (roughly) Rent 1200 (one side) both units have potential to finish basement to add additional bed/bath, would bump rents up to 1450