First home, plan to turn into rental in 2-5 years

[Jacob R.]

Good Evening BP,

First, I would like to lay out the scenario, and then list the questions below. Not sure if it matters but I'm a single male in Dallas, TX with a steady salary. I am planning on getting into REI, but first, would like to purchase a single family property for myself. I intend to live in the home for the foreseeable future (3-5 years). Ideally the property needs some TLC, and I will rehab it while I live in it with the plan of renting it out after 3-5 years.

Here are my questions:

• Does this sound like a decent plan?
• Do I run analyze the property in the same way as if I were renting it out right away?
• I have access to a VA loan, what are the pros/cons of putting no money down vs a down payment?

I realize these are pretty basic questions, but I want to make sure I’m thinking about the process in the correct way. Honest feedback is greatly appreciated!!

v/r

Jake