Real estate investing isn’t one-size-fits-all. While buying and holding long-term rentals is a tried-and-true strategy, some of the most successful investors today are finding freedom faster by using creative, intentional tactics—without taking on massive risk or dozens of properties. If you’re looking for ways to build income, equity, and flexibility without quitting your job or managing a huge portfolio, strategies like house hacking and the BRRRR method can offer a smarter, more scalable path. Here’s how to use these tools—plus a few others—to create real wealth with real estate.