Episode 252 - How Craig Curelop Turned 5 House Hacks into $1M Equity and $10K Monthly Cash Flow

What if you could live rent-free and build over a million dollars in equity within just a few years? In this powerful solo episode of Invest2FI, Craig Curelop breaks down his real estate investing journey from his very first duplex in Denver in 2017 to building a portfolio of five house hacks that now generate over $10,000 per month in cash flow and nearly $1.2M in equity.  

Craig shares raw details, including exact purchase prices, loan types, mortgage payments, and rental income. You’ll hear how he navigated market fears, COVID uncertainty, and even a costly $150,000 structural repair. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, an aspiring house hacker, or an investor scaling your portfolio, this episode is packed with proven strategies, real numbers, and inspiration to help you take action in 2025 and beyond. 

Highlights 

[03:03] Craig explains his very first duplex purchase in Denver 2017. 
[05:20] Shares FHA loan details and how he lived behind a curtain. 
[07:06] Reveals $800 monthly cash flow and $400K equity growth. 
[08:18] Talks about second house hack in Fortin Colorado in 2018. 
[09:57] Explains converting four-bedroom home into six-bedroom rental. 
[12:27] Discusses Airbnb strategy generating $2,000 monthly downstairs. 
[13:54] Breaks down Arvada property during COVID with studio unit. 
[15:19] Opens up about $150,000 structural issue and repair costs. 
[17:45] Describes Cherry Creek six-bed house hack bringing $4,700 rent. 
[19:45] Summarizes how five house hacks built $1M equity in 8 years. 

HOST 

Craig Curelop    

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy    

📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy    

🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze