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On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene delivers a solo episode breaking down everything investors need to know about house hacking. Drawing from years of experience helping clients purchase multifamily properties, Jonathan explains why house hacking remains one of the most effective ways for new investors to reduce housing costs, build equity, and learn the fundamentals of landlording — even in today's high-interest-rate environment.

Jonathan walks through the practical side of evaluating house hack opportunities, including what types of properties to target, how to identify strong layouts, and why uneven multifamily setups can create major financial advantages. He also explains the importance of understanding lease structures, separated utilities, parking, laundry, and accessory dwelling units, while highlighting common mistakes that inexperienced investors and agents often make during the process.

The episode also explores how house hacking can evolve into larger investing strategies over time. Jonathan discusses using mid-term and short-term rentals to increase income potential, leveraging mixed-use properties with owner-occupied financing, and turning a first house hack into a long-term portfolio-building tool. Rather than chasing unrealistic cash flow projections, he encourages listeners to focus on lowering living expenses, gaining experience, and building flexibility into their investing plans.

Throughout the conversation, Jonathan emphasizes the importance of working with knowledgeable professionals and approaching house hacking with realistic expectations. He shares insights on tenant communication, property management, and why the right realtor can make or break a successful deal. Ultimately, the episode serves as a practical roadmap for anyone considering their first real estate investment through house hacking.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Why reducing housing costs should be the primary goal of house hacking • What investors should look for in multifamily properties and uneven unit layouts • How ADUs, "two plus one" properties, and mixed-use buildings can create additional opportunities • Why most real estate agents do not fully understand house hacking strategies • How midterm and short-term rentals can increase income potential over time • The importance of tenant relationships, lease verification, and proper due diligence before closing

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Supporting Resources

Connect with Jonathan:

Podcast - www.zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com

Brokerage - www.streamlined.properties

YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos

Instagram - www.instagram.com/zenrealestateinvesting

Instagram- www.instagram.com/trustgreene

Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties

Instagram - www.instagream.com/zenupstate

Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/trustgreene

Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/TrustGreene

Facebook - www.facebook.com/zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting

Jonathan's Hub Site - www.trustgreene.com

Email - Jonathan@trustgreene.com

This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.