4 creative ways investors bought property with little savings

Four real-estate investors who started with little savings used creative financing methods, including borrowing from retirement accounts, home equity, and a paid-off truck, to buy their first rental properties. These strategies lowered the upfront cash barrier but added new debt obligations. The investors tapped existing assets to bypass the typical 20% down payment, which can reach $80,000 on a median-priced US home. Lucy Zheng borrowed from her 401(k) to buy a Detroit property, while Mark Kearney and Kent He used home-equity products. Mike Savage took a loan against his paid-off truck for a down payment. Each approach carried specific risks, such as potential immediate repayment if a job is lost or added debt tied to personal assets. The investors emphasized using these methods when the investment makes financial sense and fits their risk tolerance.