Here’s something most veterans don’t realize…You can use your VA loan to buy a 2, 3, or even 4-unit property as long as you plan to live in one of the units. That means you could have tenants covering your mortgage while you build equity.
This isn’t a loophole. It’s literally written into the VA loan guidelines. But you have to do it right.
What Counts as a Multi-Unit for VA?
The VA allows you to purchase:
All with zero down, if you qualify. One condition: You must intend to live in one of the units as your primary residence for at least 12 months.
Why This Strategy Is So Powerful
It’s one of the best ways to start house-hacking without needing 20% down like conventional investment loans.
What the Lender Will Look At
This is where things get a little more complex than a single-family loan.
✅ Rental income from other units: Yes, we can use that to help you qualify but we need a market rent analysis and either past experience with managing rental properties or you will need to hire a property management company.
✅ Vacancy factor: We only use 75% of the projected rent to offset expenses, just to be conservative.
✅ Reserves: You will need a minimum of 6 months reserve mortgage payments (even if you’re going $0 down).
✅ Location: Not every market has a bunch of 2–4 unit homes. But I know where to find them.
Pro Tip: Combine This With a Seller Credit
I’ve seen buyers use a VA loan to buy a fourplex, get the seller to cover their closing costs, and walk in with zero out of pocket—plus tenants already in place. That's a game-changer.
Don’t Let a Lazy Lender Tell You It Can’t Be Done
A lot of lenders flat-out say “no” to VA multi-units.
Not because it’s not allowed but because they don’t know how to structure it. I do. I’ll tell you what you qualify for, how the numbers shake out, and whether it actually makes sense for your goals.
