High-Income, Time-Strapped W2 Earner—First House Hack Strategy?

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.