Skip to content
×
Try PRO Free Today!
BiggerPockets Pro offers you a comprehensive suite of tools and resources
Market and Deal Finder Tools
Deal Analysis Calculators
Property Management Software
Exclusive discounts to Home Depot, RentRedi, and more
$0
7 days free
$828/yr or $69/mo when billed monthly.
$390/yr or $32.5/mo when billed annually.
7 days free. Cancel anytime.
Already a Pro Member? Sign in here

Join Over 3 Million Real Estate Investors

Create a free BiggerPockets account to comment, participate, and connect with over 3 million real estate investors.
Use your real name
By signing up, you indicate that you agree to the BiggerPockets Terms & Conditions.
The community here is like my own little personal real estate army that I can depend upon to help me through ANY problems I come across.
Starting Out
All Forum Categories
Followed Discussions
Followed Categories
Followed People
Followed Locations
Market News & Data
General Info
Real Estate Strategies
Landlording & Rental Properties
Real Estate Professionals
Financial, Tax, & Legal
Real Estate Classifieds
Reviews & Feedback

Updated over 4 years ago on . Most recent reply

Account Closed
4
Votes |
8
Posts

Opinions on a "House Hack" if rent will not fully cover expenses

Account Closed
Posted

Hey all!

I just moved to California (from Canada) and I am looking around for property. Property is pretty expensive here as I am sure you all know. I found a great three bedroom condo that is in exactly the location I want. It has pretty high HOA fees but it includes the water bill and some disaster insurance. There is also a gym and swimming pool included with the community. It doesn't need a whole lot of work, just some appliances and I would have to furnish the main areas.

I currently pay $750 per month on rent all-inclusive which is actually a really good deal. When I do some calculations on housing expenses and how much I could reasonably rent the additional bedrooms out for, I find that I would still be spending something like $400-$700 per month on expenses depending how things go. My logic says that I would technically be spending less for a higher quality of life given that all goes well and that I can actually rent the place out. I have only just started getting into the BP podcast and started reading Rental Property Investing by Brandon, but am wondering if there is any mention of it being a bad idea to aim for a property where this is the case. I would be looking to do other investments in property in the next 1-2 years as well.

I appreciate any and all opinions and responses. If I can clarify anything, please feel free to ask!

Most Popular Reply

User Stats

14,488
Posts
11,180
Votes
Theresa Harris
#3 General Landlording & Rental Properties Contributor
11,180
Votes |
14,488
Posts
Theresa Harris
#3 General Landlording & Rental Properties Contributor
Replied

If after all expenses (factoring in property taxes and repairs), you'd be lower than your current rent, it would be a win.  Remember your tenants are also helping pay your mortgage and building equity.  If you were to move out a few years down the road, would renting your room out then make it cash flow?

  • Theresa Harris
  • Loading replies...