House Hack Offset
See how renting out a room or another unit can help cover your monthly mortgage payment and lower your out-of-pocket costs.
Property Structure
Living there allows you to use low down payment loans on multi-unit properties!
Income & Expenses
Helps offset your costs, but can't be used to qualify for the loan.
Your total base loan payment, plus taxes and insurance.
Paste your base calculation from the Payment Estimator here.
Bank Rules You Should Know
- The 75% Bank Rule: When applying for a loan, banks usually only count 75% of your expected rental income to help you qualify. They require a 25% safety net to act as a buffer for times when a unit is empty or needs major repairs. Our standard scenario mirrors this exact calculation.
- Living There is Required: Low-down-payment loans legally require you to live in one of the units as your primary home for a minimum of 12 months. Buying a 4-unit building purely as an investor who doesn't live there requires a much larger down payment (usually 20-25%).
- Roommate Income: Except for a few highly specific bank programs, you generally cannot use expected roommate income to help you get approved for a loan. While renting to friends lowers your *real-life* monthly cost, the bank requires you to be able to afford the full monthly payment on your own.
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Brokerage Disclosure: eXp Realty is a licensed real estate broker. Information provided is subject to change.
Equal Housing Opportunity. We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.
Disclaimer: Information is for educational purposes only and is not financial, legal, or tax advice. Estimates are not guaranteed. Consult a licensed mortgage professional for exact numbers.
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