House Hacking
Live in one unit, rent the others. Lowest barrier to entry - and one of the best ways for first-time buyers to break into investing.
Book a Strategy Session →What it is
House hacking means buying a property with multiple units (or a basement suite + main floor), living in one unit, and renting out the others. In Ontario, you can buy an owner-occupied duplex, triplex, or even a fourplex with as little as 5-10% down - vs. 20% for a pure investment property - which makes it the most capital-efficient way to start investing.
Best for
- First-time buyers wanting to offset their mortgage
- Investors with limited capital
- Anyone open to living near tenants
Pros
- • 5-10% down vs 20% on pure rentals
- • Tenants pay most/all of your mortgage
- • Live free or close to free in expensive markets
Cons
- • You're a live-in landlord
- • Limited inventory in some markets
- • Has to also work as a primary residence
Best cities for house hacking
Important disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Real estate market data and projections are based on current market conditions, which can change without notice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Consult with qualified professionals before making any investment decisions. Cityscape Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage.