All Forum Posts by: Amber Stout

Love what you’re doing, Sarah — that’s such a smart approach. I personally have done the house hacking strategy with 2-4 unit properties. :) 

I'm seeing a lot of success with clients using FHA or conventional financing with as little as 3.5–5% down on duplexes or even 3–4 unit properties. The key is living in one unit for at least a year (which you're already doing), and the rental income from the other side can often be used to help qualify and even cover most of the mortgage.

It’s an amazing way to build wealth with less out of pocket, especially paired with builder incentives or seller credits. I work with a lot of house hackers and investor-agents across Florida — always happy to brainstorm creative financing options if you or your buyers ever want to chat strategy.  :)

Hey Antoinette, love that you're thinking this through strategically. I work with a lot of investors here in FL and have helped to figure out how to structure. 

Yes, there are lender options that might work with related entity income, especially on the investor/DSCR side.

Happy to chat through what you’re looking to do and walk you through some ways to position Entity A to qualify. Let me know if you want to connect!

Hi Nico! I'm across the bridge in St.Pete and am an investor/mortgage broker specializing in working with investors. Congrats on looking to purchase your first rental property. It's a big step however it's one that will be life changing for you. I have several rentals myself and am part of several masterminds, happy to help in anyway whether that's on the lending side, underwriting, or PM. 

You’re definitely on the right track thinking about this stuff. A couple of things I’d keep in mind as you’re looking:

First, a lot of condos in St. Pete Beach and Treasure Island won't allow daily or weekly short-term rentals. The rules can vary from building to building, so you'll want to make sure you're clear on the HOA restrictions for each one you're considering. Some only allow 30 day minimums.

From a lending standpoint, I’m seeing fewer and fewer lenders offering financing on Florida condos right now. Post hurricane, a lot of buildings aren’t passing the stricter reviews, and that’s something to think about as an investor. If financing is limited, there’s a smaller buyer pool when you go to sell = less demand can affect values.

Also, be aware that some HOAs have special assessments coming up, and I’ve seen fees increase significantly in certain buildings. That’s a risk as an investor since those costs are out of your control and can really impact cash flow.

As far as standing out in a short term rental market, I’d focus on making your place an *experience*, not just another condo.

If you ever want to chat through financing options or want a connection to an agent that specializes in STR in the area, let me know, happy to help!

Hi Luke, welcome to Bigger Pockets. That's exciting you're looking to grow your portfolio. I live and have several rentals in St. Petersburg and am looking to grow as well. I own all small multi families and would like to get into some small-mid size MF's. I also a mortgage broker specializing in working with investors. I'd love to connect and see how we might be able to help one another grow. 

Hi Ray, I'm sorry you're having to experience that. In my experience, having a challenging tenant in the property is not only financially costly but it can be mentally/emotionally costly as well. I personally would be giving the tenant a 60 day notice of non renewal, then fix up the home, and do some reflection on how to get a better quality tenant in the property so you don't have this same experience again. I do a lot of vetting up front to make sure we're pretty sure we have a solid tenant. Happy to chat further regarding that if it would be valuable for you. 

Hi Peter, welcome to BP. In my experience, being around growth like minded individuals is what has allowed me to grow the most. I'd be happy to share some great local meet ups and also open to connecting. I'll send you a DM. 

Hi all, I've been on BP since 2014 and a multifamily investor since 2019. I turned lender based in St. Pete/Tampa. I’m looking to expand my network and connect with other investors, realtors, and real estate professionals—especially those who are growth and collaboration-oriented. If you’re open to connecting, send me a message. 

Hi Colin, I live and invest in St. Pete and it's an absolute gem! Based on the development expected over the next decade, I believe it's a great area to invest in. Would you be looking to owner occupy the property or strictly as an investment? Being out of state, I would suggest vetting your "team", meaning find an investor realtor, lender/s (hard $ / long term), property manager, contractors, etc. I have a GREAT rolodex of folks if you need connections. 

@David Garcia Hey David, as an investor & mortgage broker, I'd be happy to help. If you're set on using a local bank, try BayFirst - I've done deals with them in the past and they've been great.