Where to go from first house hack?

[Taylor Hughs]

Hello! My name is Taylor, I'm 18 and am an aspiring real estate investor. I have read 2 books with many, many more to come, and have listened to countless Bigger Pockets podcasts preparing for the day I have the capital to purchase my first duplex (or other small multifamily) and begin house hacking. I was wondering, after I purchase this first house hack, where do I go from here?

I understand that real estate is not a get rich quick scheme, I'm in it for the long run. However, this does not mean that I want to buy and hold, waste time, etc. I want to work towards financial freedom every chance I can. I want to do as many deals as possible to work towards this goal, I want to grow my portfolio to be making 6 figures a month in my first 5 years. I understand again that his goal is astronomical but, I want to have something to work towards.

I plan on going to college (finance degree) , working as much as I can, to save up for this. I have a mentor at the college I am aspiring to go to that will be able to take me under her wing and hopefully give me a job in real estate while I save up and learn before I have the capital to take my first step towards financial independence. On that note, do you all suggest going into property management while I'm working for her or an agent etc.  ?

I was looking into BRRRRing after my first property but, was confused on how I would have the funds if I purchase a duplex. I feel as if I refinance, it won't provide me with the capital needed to continue going scaling. Please let me know, I understand I can force equity but some people are saying don't buy a huge renovation property for your first. I do belive I will be more prepared than the average beginning agent so was wondering what you all think about that to.

If you have read this far, thank you so much. I really appreciate all the support from this community. If there's anything else you think I should know or another direction please feel free to let me know. I really want to hear as many routes and perspectives as I can. Thank you again!