BRRRR Townhouse vs. Multifamily House Hack

[Travis Kumar]

I am so close to being dialed in on a strategy, but could use some help.

I am mid-30's, good job, and am looking to invest in my first property with my gf. I have 30k I can deploy in cash, and am pre-qualified with 2 lenders for up to 350k FHA 3.5% down.

The two strategies that seem to fit our goals, are house hacking a multi-unit, or BRRRR a townhouse. Would love your take on what you would do if you were in my situation.

I want to play the long game, and acquire rentals over time.

The only requirement my partner has placed is that we don't share a living space with strangers. Meaning house hacking a townhouse or SFH don't align with our current goals.

Other than that, the goal is to amass as much equity as possible, without over-leveraging ourselves.

If you were starting over, which would you choose?

Any insight greatly appreciated!