Divorce - A Chance to Start Over Right?

[Catherine Curtsinger]

Once we sell our family home, my half of the proceeds should be about $300k. I have the chance to do this right with an investment mindset. Do I househack, BRRRR, Short term rental? I need a primary home for me and my child and dogs. I'm VA so I can take advantage of 0 down. I've always wanted a place in Big Bear. We're in North County San Diego so Vista, San Marcos, Oceanside for primary home. Do I buy as low as I can to afford mortgage with 0 down and use 300k for big bear or put a larger down on primary home. My income is $130k but will grow with new business opportunities in the coming years. I'd love to find a duplex but seems my income wouldn't support that. What scenarios do you see options for?

[Jonathan Greene]

Welcome to the site. You are in a great spot to re-start your journey, especially with the help of your VA benefits and service to your country. You can own more than one property with your VA benefits so you want to check your total allotment.

House hacking with a kid is always just a choice and dependent on the proximity of the other unit and more. If you are comfortable with it, it could work out great. San Diego and the surrounding areas are VERY ADU friendly so there are properties with options to add one in the back that are really starting to pop there and could be an alternative option.

Take it slow. Get through the divorce. Maybe get settled in a rental for a year for the stability while you look for the right home or investment.