House hack by buying a small multifamily property and living in one unit
Use FHA, VA, USDA, or other low-down-payment loan programs
Partner with someone who has capital while you bring the deal or management
Invest in real estate crowdfunding platforms
Buy REITs through a brokerage account
Purchase seller-financed properties with low upfront cash
Negotiate lease options or rent-to-own agreements
Wholesaling properties without buying them
Bird-dogging deals for investors for a finder’s fee
Use hard money or private money for short-term acquisitions
Buy distressed properties that need sweat equity instead of large cash
Start with small markets or lower-cost neighborhoods
Invest in tax liens or tax deeds where allowed
Use a HELOC or cash-out refinance from existing assets
Buy fractional ownership in properties
Reinvest profits from one deal into the next
Focus on value-add strategies that increase equity quickly
Work as a real estate agent, property manager, or contractor to build access and income
Use retirement accounts that allow real estate investing, such as a self-directed IRA
Join local real estate investor groups to find off-market opportunities