Many people believe real estate investing requires significant capital but it’s entirely possible to start with limited funds. With the right strategy and knowledge, you can enter the market and grow your portfolio over time.

One of the most common entry points is through house hacking. This involves purchasing a multi-unit property (like a duplex or triplex), living in one unit, and renting out the others. This can offset your mortgage and even generate a profit. FHA loans can make this even more accessible by requiring as little as 3.5% down.

Another option is partnering with others. If you don’t have enough for a down payment, consider teaming up with friends, family, or other investors. Partnerships allow you to pool resources, share responsibilities, and reduce individual financial burden.

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are a great alternative for those not ready to buy physical property. With REITs, you can invest in real estate through the stock market, gaining exposure to large-scale properties and earning dividends—all without being a landlord.

Wholesaling real estate is another low-cost way to enter the market. This involves finding undervalued properties, putting them under contract, and assigning that contract to another buyer for a fee. It requires hustle and networking but not a large upfront investment.

Seller financing or “rent-to-own” agreements can also work in your favor. In these cases, the seller finances the purchase, which eliminates the need for traditional bank loans. These deals often have flexible terms, making them ideal for buyers with limited capital or credit issues.

Online platforms like Fundrise or Roofstock offer another route. These services allow investors to contribute small amounts to large-scale property developments or purchase turnkey rental homes with management already in place.

Finally, focus on building your credit score and saving aggressively. Improving your credit increases your chances of securing favorable loan terms, while consistent saving sets you up for a future down payment or unexpected costs.

Starting small doesn’t mean staying small. With persistence and smart decisions, your first modest investment can be the beginning of a successful and profitable real estate career.