From First Duplex to Financial Freedom: Bethany’s House Hacking Journey

For Bethany, real estate is more than a profession—it’s a personal passion rooted in vision, intention, and strategic action. Her house hacking journey began with a duplex she had once only visualized, and has evolved into a growing investment portfolio that generates income and opportunity.

The Hopkins Duplex: A Vision Realized

Purchase Price: $360,000
Monthly Mortgage Payment: $2,4762,476
Rental Income: $1,600 from the other unit
Bethany’s Out-of-Pocket Living Cost: $176 per month plus utilities 

Bethany’s first investment was more than just a good deal—it was a dream realized. For years, her vision board featured a white duplex. She shared this vision board with friends, co-workers and even on social media. A fellow Realtor brought her the perfect off market property - a white duplex in Hopkins, Minnesota—it was a full-circle manifestation moment.

She quickly fixed up the side of the duplex she would be renting out first so she could get a renter in as soon as possible. She was able to rent out that three bedroom, two bathroom side for $1,600 per month. She then moved into the other side and rented out a bedroom and bathroom to a roommate for an additional $700 per month, dramatically reducing her living expenses while learning the ropes of property management. Minor renovations enhanced the property’s value and rental appeal, laying the groundwork for her next move. 

The Plymouth Duplex: Scaling Up with Intention

Purchase Price: $425,000
Monthly Mortgage Payment: $3,013
Rental Income: $1,550 from the other unit 
Bethany’s Out-of-Pocket Living Cost: $1,463

After gaining confidence and equity in her Hopkins duplex, Bethany took the next leap by purchasing another side-by-side duplex in Plymouth. She has been improving her side of the duplex over the past few years as she's lived there and completely renovated the other side of the duplex to get a new tenant in for $2,300 a month. 

Key Takeaways from Bethany’s Experience

• Start Small, Scale Up: A live-in duplex is a manageable entry point with great returns.

• Live for Less: House hacking allowed Bethany to dramatically cut her cost of living to invest cash into repairs and increase the property value. 

• Renovate with Purpose: Small updates can increase rental value and long-term equity.

• Use Owner-Occupied Financing: FHA or low-down-payment loans can make entry easier for first-time homebuyers to purchase property. 

Bethany’s journey shows that with a bit of courage, creativity, and planning, house hacking can be a powerful wealth-building tool. Whether you're an aspiring investor or just want to lower your living expenses, there's inspiration to be found in starting where you are—with one smart property decision.

Curious about getting started with investing? Join us for our Virtual Investor Seminar on 4/30/25, 6-7pm. Register for the Zoom link here!