First-Time Investor Strategy

House Hacking Calculator

See how renting out part of your home can eliminate your housing costs. The #1 strategy for first-time real estate investors.

Property Details

Enter your house hack scenario

Property & Financing

Property Type

Purchase Price

Down Payment %

Interest Rate %

Loan Term (years)

Units & Rent

Total Units

You Live In

Rent Per Unit (Monthly)

Monthly Expenses

Annual Taxes

Annual Insurance

Monthly Utilities

Monthly HOA

What is House Hacking?

House hacking is a real estate strategy where you live in one unit of a multi-family property (like a duplex, triplex, or fourplex) while renting out the other units. The rental income from tenants helps pay your mortgage, potentially allowing you to live for free or even generate positive cash flow.

Why House Hacking Works

Low Down Payment: FHA loans allow as little as 3.5% down for owner-occupied properties
Reduced Living Costs: Rental income offsets your mortgage payment
Build Equity: You're building wealth while tenants help pay your mortgage
Learn Landlording: Gain hands-on experience managing properties while living on-site