How does your price point change between owner occupied & rental?

[Megan Huynh]

Hi there! I’m a new investor in Washington DC. I’m interested in buying in the city or in the neighboring suburbs.

As many already know, the market is very competitive and there is a low supply of properties here. At first I was looking to invest in a rental around the $300k range (which is very few!)

Now, I’m interested in buying an owner occupied home. Knowing that - I could get a lower rate/ down payment on an owner occupied home, how does that change the price range of a house I’m looking at? I now can afford monthly payments for houses selling at the $400-500k range. But should I change the purchase price criteria just because I can afford it?

Thanks!