Newbie in NJ Looking to Househack

[Asif Baig]

Hello BP Community,

I discovered Bigger Pockets last year and started by reading articles and attending a few webinars. I am interested in buy and hold investing as a way to make passive income. I have no experience with real estate so I feel like the best way for me to get started is by house hacking a small multifamily.

I currently work in Bridgewater, NJ and rent an apartment in the area. I'd like to stay within 50 miles of my job, so I've been researching the market in Somerville and Manville NJ and as far west as Easton, PA. I would be open to hearing about other good rental markets in between, too. My goal is to purchase something by the end of this year, before my lease is up.

I would love connect with other REIs, especially those with experience in the above mentioned markets. What do you think about house hacking for a complete novice?