All Forum Posts by: Benjamin Boyle

@Greg Weik That's an interesting perspective. When you say "Unfortunately, what works the best also requires the most capital", do you mean putting a large amount down on a SFR?

That is kind of why I had the idea of a downtown SF with ADU (and airbnb to get closer to not having a huge amount out of pocket). But as others have said, that type of property isn't common in Denver.

@Ryan Spath Yes, the more I read, the more the consensus seems to be that it really starts rolling on its own after ~7 years. I do like the idea of purchasing a 4-plex as often as possible with the FHA/5% conventional.

Like I said previously though, my biggest concern is finding something that will at least break even cash flow when I go to move out after the first year or two. I also mentioned that my W2 may not be stable, there seems to be constant layoffs happening around me. So a negative cash flow property would add a lot of stress.

@Eric DeNardo Thanks for the confirmation on STR in Denver. I wasn't aware of those areas close to Denver that can be non-owner-occupied. I assume those areas are not as desirable for short-term renters.

I have a spouse and we both often work from home. So I don't think the co-living strategy is a sacrifice that we are willing to make now.

Appreciate the insights. If we could get the systems you suggest in place, I'm sure together my wife and I could coordinate a couple hours a week.

@Bill B. Unfortunately the company adjusts my income based on the state. I moved from California to be closer to my wife's family, and they adjusted my income down because Colorado is a (slightly) lower cost of living state. So moving would essentially be a wash as far as income/taxes go.

Being married and a little older than most people starting here, I think renting by the room is something we aren't willing to sacrifice for. We both also work from home often.

We are likely interested in house hacking a multi-family. Thanks for your insight.

Hi everyone,

I’m currently renting in the Denver metro for $2,150/month and looking to buy my first property. I discovered BiggerPockets and FI about two years ago, and since then, I’ve been focused on improving my financial position and saving aggressively.

My Situation

• No real estate owned yet

• High-income but very time-intensive W2 job

• ~$80K cash saved, growing by ~$100K annually

• Limited time outside of work, so I think my best strategy is fewer, high-quality assets over volume

• End goal is optionality and freedom. I have concerns about stability of W2

Strategies I’m Considering

1️⃣ Single-Family + ADU (Downtown Area, ~$1M+)

• Live in the ADU and short-term rent the main house (from what I've read this is the only viable way to STR in Denver)

• Concerns: Managing STR with limited time, exit strategy when I move and STR is no longer legal

2️⃣ Duplex/Triplex/Fourplex (“A” Neighborhood)

• House hack for a year, then transition to property management and repeat

• Concerns: Cash flow after moving out, limited time for value-add opportunities

3️⃣ Relocate to a Different Market

• W2 allows location flexibility, and I don't have ties to Denver

• Same strategies, but in a market where entry costs and cash flow may be better

• Concerns: Long-term appreciation vs. Denver

What I’m Looking For:

• Feedback on these strategies—what am I missing or not considering?

• Advice from those who have done STR or small multifamily house hacks with a busy W2

• Thoughts on exit strategies for both options

Would love to hear from those with experience in similar situations! Thanks in advance.