I went from a W2 job to building a portfolio of 500+ units over the last 5 years by starting small and scaling smart.

Thanks Andrew Yes we are in ACNJ most of our properties are in AC but do have a handful in Ventnor and other shore towns. 

@Paige Gardner HM is a great way to get started however understand that it is SHORT TERM FINANCING 6-18 months. 

Also start talking to lenders now to understand their requirements 

Our goal is to deliver as much value as possible to encourage everyone to either get started investing or dramatically expand your portfolio in the best markets to accomplish your goals regardless if this is your 1st property or 50th!

I have saved up some money but my goal is to save up at least 20k in a year before I start looking for options on house hacking in a duplex.

There are easier strategies to start your new venture.

Since this is a short-term flip, the IRS usually sees it as active income, but if your role is truly hands-off, there might be a way to treat it differently.Have you thought about how you’re structuring the deal?

I do a lot of boots on the ground stuff for different clients of mine who might need stuff like leasing, walkthroughs, contractor recommendations, but want to be more hands on with the managing of the property.  

My second house was under contract before it was even listed, but the combination of my GC disappearing and having to restart the permitting process for the carport in March right at the start of Corona lock downs dragged that out and eventually feel out of contract.