# Real Estate Investing Routes for Small to Mid-Size Portfolios
Real estate investing doesn't require a down payment of $100,000 or a sprawling property portfolio. Six distinct pathways exist for investors working with budgets ranging from $10,000 to $100,000.
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) represent the lowest barrier to entry. You can purchase REIT shares through any brokerage account for as little as the cost of a single share, sometimes under $50. REITs function as publicly traded companies that own and manage rental properties or mortgages, passing rental income to shareholders as dividends. This approach offers instant diversification and liquidity without property management responsibilities.
Crowdfunding platforms like Fundrise and RealtyMogul pool investor capital to fund development projects or apartment buildings. Minimum investments typically start at $500 to $1,000, allowing participation in larger deals. Returns come through project completion and rental income.
House flipping partnerships let smaller investors join experienced flippers on specific projects. You contribute capital while partners handle renovations and sales. Initial investments range from $10,000 to $50,000 depending on the deal.
Private lending involves funding mortgages for other real estate investors. You lend money secured by property, earning interest payments. Minimum amounts vary but often fall between $25,000 and $50,000.
Direct rental property ownership remains viable with $20,000 to $30,000 down payments on properties in lower-cost markets. Some investors purchase properties in secondary markets where purchase prices stay under $100,000, making 20 percent down payments manageable. Rental income covers mortgage payments and generates cash flow.
Lease options give you control of a property without purchasing it outright. You pay the landlord a fee (typically $5,000 to