San Antonio House-Hackers

[Isaiah Garcia]

Hi, everyone! Currently searching for my first rent-by-room house-hack. If you’re house-hacking in San Antonio, I’d love to know what your experience has been! 

In what areas have you had most success?

Is the pool of potential renters large or small given today’s circumstances with COVID-19?

Which neighborhoods make the most sense for rent-by-room? 

I’m using a DPA program and looking for a 3b/2b under 250k. My ONLY concern is buying a nice house nobody wants to live in.

Any answers would be GREATLY appreciated, and I’d love to connect! 

[David Wicks]

Hey Isaiah! I think you're making a smart move with the rent-by-room house hack. I am currently 6 months into my first house hack. It's a 4 BD 2.5 BA SFH in San Antonio, TX. So far, the experience has been great.

My situation is unique in the sense that I live with my brother and 2 of my best friends. So I would say that my greatest success thus far has been that I have had very little trouble in the way of finding tenants/vacancy. 3 of us lived together in a house we rented previously so the transition to buying made alot of sense. 

The numbers work out so that I basically only pay about 100 bucks a month out of pocket. For you and your price range I recommend areas close to a lot of attractions (for example I live fairly close to Seaworld and a lot of shops/restaurants). Also, there are always military service men and women looking for an alternative to base housing so a home nearby to Lackland or one of the other bases would make a lot of sense. I'd look in areas close to 410 and 90 or even out by 1604 and 90. There should be plenty of inventory in your price range. Also, I would say San Antonio renter pool is rarely low because of all the job opportunity and growth going on here. Thousands flock in daily.

Of course make sure the purchase is still within your means when occupancy is not at 100% and always provide lease agreements to all tenants. As long as you follow typical landlord rules I think it will be a great move. Let me know if you have any additional questions and feel free to DM if need be. Good luck!