In this episode of FI Study Room, I’m taking you behind the scenes of our very first renovation project — our primary home in Union City — and how we turned it into a 40% cash-on-cash return.

I break down the total cost, how we calculated our renovation budget, and the exact steps we took to find a deal in the crazy Bay Area market. From hunting down a reliable contractor to managing the budget like a hawk, I share everything I wish I knew before starting.

Whether you're house-hunting, thinking about a flip, or just real estate curious — this episode is packed with real numbers, honest lessons, and practical tips.

What you’ll learn:

• 💸 How we bought our home under market value

• 📊 Our renovation budget + what we spent

• 🛠️ How to vet contractors & manage timelines

• 🔍 Design decisions that save money and boost resale value