How to navigate house hacking in HCOL( DMV)

[Mala Shanit]

Hi,

Newbie here. Currently living in DC- Cap Hill area, have a son, single mom, and trying to make my next move the best move. I’m anchored to the DMV area by way of work and a custody agreement. Ideally I’d like to kill two birds with one stone: purchase a home for myself( for my son and I) with the opportunity for it to be income producing. I’ve inundated myself with research, podcasts, and now i’m here: another househack hopeful. Can you share your best strategy? I’m priced out, there aren’t many multi family units, condos make zero sense, row home w/basement apt are few and far. I feel a little stuck and my radar keeps sending me to Baltimore ( lower point of entry and and abundance of multi family units) but has declining population and terrible schools. Any advice on how  a single mom can begin househacking in a HCOL or on the perimeter? I know I can do this, it’s the how.