I’m a Beginner Looking To Get Started

[Jalen Chanthaboury]

Hey BP community,

So I’m 19 years old with no job. I am self employed basically as I run my own e-commerce business. That’s been my main source of income for about 4 months now. My income is based off the sales I generate so it’s not guaranteed. And I plan on shutting that store down soon as well...

To get started, I am looking to invest in a multi-family (2-4units) and profit off of that by house-hacking/renting it out to tenants. I know you need a true source of income in order to qualify for loans, and I don't have a job. So I'm wondering how does one get started investing in real estate at such a young age to where he/she doesn't have a job like myself? I want to get started ASAP. I have about $20k saved up; I've been saving up to use for an investment property. I refuse to work for someone/be an employee in order to qualify for an FHA, conventional, etc... But if that is my only option, I guess I'd have no choice. Also have been looking into hard money lenders, but not sure if that's the way to go unless someone proves me wrong. I need some advice!

Any help would be much appreciated! Thanks BP.