Where should a newbie start out?

[Jennifer Lexon]

Hi all,

I want to buy my first triplex or duplex. My budget is $160,000 and I want to grab a pristine, move in ready rehab in a decent neighborhood. I don't mind renting to lower income people and I don't mind if the neighborhood is all one ethnicity. What cities and neighborhoods should I look in for a positive experience?

[Jimmy Lieu]

Quote from @Jennifer Lexon:

Hi all,

I want to buy my first triplex or duplex. My budget is $160,000 and I want to grab a pristine, move in ready rehab in a decent neighborhood. I don't mind renting to lower income people and I don't mind if the neighborhood is all one ethnicity. What cities and neighborhoods should I look in for a positive experience?

Realistically speaking, I will say that to house hack with that budget and look for a duplex or triplex that is turnkey and in a decent neighborhood, you're not going to find that. The reason why is because there has to always be a trade off when it comes to finding a great neighborhood/turnkey and cash flow. If you want it to be turnkey, it's likely not going to cash flow. If you want an amazing neighborhood, it's likely not going to cash flow either. There always has to be trade offs. I would recommend taking a look into the Columbus Ohio market - you can still find single families that will hit the 1% rule, positive cash flow, and have amazing appreciation. Additionally, so many companies are moving and developing here that anything you buy will be a goldmine within the next few years! Happy to connect and answer any questions you may have.