Does this deal work?

[Victor Nganga]

Hey, fellow investors, I need some advice on this potential house hack with a Fannie Mae Conventional Loan. I’ll be living in one unit and renting out the other three. Here are the numbers:

Purchase Details

 Location- Ohio

• Purchase Price: $249,900
• Down Payment: 5% ($12,500)
• Loan Amount: $237,400
• Interest Rate: 6.8%
• Loan Term: 30 years

Monthly Income (from 3 rented units, with me living in Unit 3)

• Unit 1 Rent: $735
• Unit 2 Rent: $925
• Unit 3 Rent: $725 - Minus
• Unit 4 Rent: $795
• Total Monthly Income: $2,455

Monthly Expenses

• Principal & Interest: $1,548
• Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): $150
• Property Taxes: $317 (based on $3,790 annually)
• Home Insurance: $120
• Water & Sewer: $175
• Repairs & Maintenance (5% of rent): $123
• Capital Expenditures (10% of rent): $246
• Vacancy Reserve (5% of rent): $123
• Total Monthly Expenses: $2,802

Monthly Cash Flow

• Total Monthly Income: $2,455
• Total Monthly Expenses: $2,802
• Monthly Cash Flow: -$347 (out-of-pocket)

Annual Cash Flow

• Annual Cash Flow: -$4,164

Is there anything I’m missing? Does this look like a viable house hack, or would you pass? Appreciate any feedback or suggestions!

[Victor Nganga]

Thanks, Matthew. Since I was moving to Cleveland anyway, my plan was to pay myself rent and have the other units help cover the negitive cash flow on the $250k property. I see now that reducing expenses or adding value with a 203k loan could make a big difference in making it profitable. I appreciate the advice on finding a strong deal and having a clear strategy.