I was hoping some people here could help point me in the right direction. I'm 22, living with my parents, and currently have no debt. I'm getting ready to move out with my girlfriend soon, but I want to make sure I actually get a place which I can afford, while making the best decision. I currently am self employed and have been for just a year.

My net income this year should be $38k, next year will probably be $60 - $80k. The reason for that number is that I started with very little money, but things are ramping up quickly as I'm expanding rapidly. My current, net monthly income puts me at $50k per year if it happened every month. I currently have $10k in assets and cash equivalents, and $22k saved in cash.

I'm looking to move out, but I know in the future I want to get into real estate. I'm located in South Florida. I've considered house hacking, but it's difficult here. Without spending $250k - $350k, I will wind up living in a not-so-good neighborhood, while also having to manage a tenant. It will be rent free, but I want my actual home to be relatively stress free. I'm not even sure if I'd be able to get into a place like that with my current income and limited income history. Parents could possible help, but it just seems like it may not be worth it.

I've considered an apartment, but I hate spending $1200 per month on rent and not building up equity.

At the same time I've considered a condo, but I run into the same issue as house hacking. It's just hard to find a condo in a good area around here that isnt too expensive.

My current idea was to rent a $1200/month apartment, and then use a chunk of my savings to start trying to get into real estate, and possibly buying a more average duplex at $150k - $200k. The $1200 would be split two ways since I'd be living with someone, but I am also capable of affording it myself if necessary. I figure this would provide some income to cover a bit of my apartment rent, get me some experience in real estate and property management, and I would also be building equity.

Any advice or thoughts? I really appreciate anyone who has actually read this far down.

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22, finally looking to move out. I cant decide what to rent/buy

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