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In the world of real estate investing, it’s easy to get caught up in what success should look like-whether it’s owning 100 doors or achieving financial freedom in five years. But the truth? Success looks different for everyone.
In this episode of the LFG Lending podcast, we share our personal investment stories-from house hacking and BRRRRs to short-term rentals and partnerships. Whether you’re buying your first duplex or building a 10-property portfolio, this episode reminds you: there’s no “right” path. There’s only your path.
Key Takeaways from Our Real Estate Journeys
Your Version of Financial Freedom Is Valid
Not everyone needs to chase 100 doors. If your goal is one solid rental every few years to build long-term wealth, that’s just as powerful. Your real estate journey should reflect your lifestyle, risk tolerance, and long-term vision-not someone else’s highlight reel on TikTok.
“Each investment is its own snowflake.” – and that’s okay.
House Hacking Is Still One of the Best Entry Points
Buying a duplex as your primary residence and renting out the other unit can be life-changing. One story from the episode:
- Paid $850 in rent
- Bought a duplex with an FHA loan
- Collected $650 in rent from one side
- Reduced personal housing cost to $300/month
That extra $500/month went straight into future investments.
Real Estate is Personal-So is Your Strategy
Some people want appreciation, others want cash flow. Some love short-term rentals, others prefer low-maintenance long-term holds. The common thread? Build a plan that aligns with your life-not someone else’s investment playbook.
Married? Business owner? Minimal time? Then maybe 2-3 high-performing rentals is your sweet spot. And that’s plenty.
The BRRRR Method Still Works-With Patience
BRRRR (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) isn’t dead-it’s just harder to execute in today’s market. You may not always get all your cash back, but deals where you leave in 5-10% of the ARV still make sense long term.
Here’s how one of our team members made it work:
- Rehabbed 10 properties in 1 year
- Left only $5K-$8K in each
- Projected $100K annual income once mortgages are paid off
Smart, slow deal analysis was key. Saying “no” often protected them from bad deals.
Your Team Is Everything
You can’t scale or stay sane without a strong team. Realtor, property manager, contractor, lender-they all impact the outcome. Confidence in your team = confidence in your deal.
One guest had a property manager they’ve known since first grade. Trust matters.
Lessons Learned the Hard Way (So You Don’t Have To)
- Inspections Matter: Skipping HVAC inspections can cost you. One guest’s first rent check went straight to replacing a $650 blower motor.
- Comfort Is a Sign: If a deal starts to give you a pit in your stomach, listen to it. Real estate is a long game—it’s okay to pass.
- Short-Term Isn’t for Everyone: Managing Airbnbs during COVID led some investors to rethink their time commitment. Long-term rentals brought peace and steady cash flow.
Looking Ahead: Be Patient, Stay Ready
Perfect BRRRR deals (where you get all your money back) are still out there-but they’re rare. Instead of chasing perfection, ask:
What am I comfortable leaving in this deal?
Staying consistent-running numbers, working with your lender, and putting in offers-is what keeps you sharp and puts you ahead when the market shifts.
Build a Strategy That Matches Your Life
Whether you want 2 rentals or 20, LFG Lending is here to help you finance your journey. We’ll talk about goals, risk tolerance, and build a plan that fits you.
Book a Free Strategy Call with LFG Lending