How Gen Z Can Start Investing Now

How Gen Z Can Start Investing with $100 in 2025: Complete Guide to Building Wealth in a Digital World

Investing might sound intimidating, especially for Gen Z navigating the rapidly changing landscape of 2025. With headlines about artificial intelligence reshaping jobs and remote work transforming the workplace, many are asking: What’s the best way to start investing with just $100 in 2025? This comprehensive guide cuts through the noise, offering actionable steps, real-world tools, and clear advice tailored for Gen Z beginners.

Why Gen Z Should Invest Early — And Why $100 Is Enough to Start

Waiting to accumulate thousands before getting into the investment game is a mistake. Thanks to fractional shares, zero-commission brokers, and robo-advisors, you can start investing with as little as $100. Why now?

• Compound growth: Time is your biggest asset. Even small amounts add up thanks to compounding.
• Experience: Early exposure helps you learn, navigate losses, and build investment discipline before your income grows.
• Wealth building: The earlier you start, the more likely you’ll hit your longer-term financial goals like buying a home or funding your dream project.

2025 Investing Landscape: Key Trends Shaping Starter Portfolios

This year, Gen Z faces a unique mix of opportunities and challenges:

Need capital? GHC Funding offers flexible funding solutions to support your business growth or real estate projects. Discover fast, reliable financing options today!

Test Your Expertise: The Complexities of the 1031 Exchange

As a sophisticated real estate investor, you understand that the 1031 Exchange is a cornerstone strategy for tax deferral and wealth accumulation. But beyond the basics, the intricacies of the 1031 Exchange rules can pose significant challenges. This quiz is designed to test your in-depth knowledge and highlight critical nuances that separate casual investors from true experts in 1031 Exchange transactions.

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.

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Page 1 of 5

Question 1: Understanding "Like-Kind" in a 1031 Exchange

Which of the following scenarios most likely qualifies as a like-kind property exchange under IRS Section 1031, allowing for 1031 Exchange tax deferral?

a) An investor exchanges a portfolio of publicly traded REIT stocks for a commercial retail building. b) An investor exchanges their primary residence, used for personal living for 15 years, for a duplex intended for rental income. c) An investor exchanges raw land held for appreciation in Texas for a stabilized apartment complex in Florida, both held for investment. d) An investor exchanges a classic car collection (personal property) for a single-family rental home (real property).

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Question 2: Navigating the 45-Day Identification Period for a 1031 Exchange

An investor sells a multi-family property on June 15th for a 1031 Exchange. According to the strict timelines, by what date must they identify their replacement properties to comply with the 1031 Exchange requirements?

a) July 30th of the same year, as the 45-day period includes weekends and holidays. b) August 29th of the same year, allowing for an extra 45 days if needed. c) December 12th of the same year, aligning with the 180-day completion period. d) January 1st of the following year, if they plan to file for an extension.

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Question 3: The Role of a Qualified Intermediary (QI) in a 1031 Exchange

Why is the engagement of a Qualified Intermediary (QI) absolutely critical for the validity of a 1031 Exchange?

a) The QI provides investment advice and helps the investor choose the best replacement property for their 1031 Exchange strategy. b) The QI acts as a liaison with the IRS, directly negotiating tax liabilities related to the 1031 Exchange process. c) The QI holds the proceeds from the relinquished property's sale, preventing the investor from having "constructive receipt" of funds, which would invalidate the 1031 Exchange. d) The QI provides legal and tax advice to ensure the 1031 Exchange is perfectly compliant

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Question 4: Understanding "Boot" and its Impact on a 1031 Exchange

An investor sells a commercial building with $500,000 in equity for a 1031 Exchange. They purchase a replacement property for $450,000, effectively reducing their debt by $50,000. What is the tax implication of this scenario within the 1031 Exchange framework?

a) The entire 1031 Exchange is disqualified because the investor "traded down" in value. b) The $50,000 in reduced debt is considered "boot" and will be immediately taxable as partial gain in this 1031 Exchange. c) There are no immediate tax implications, as the primary goal of the 1031 Exchange is only about the "like-kind" nature of the properties. d) The investor can defer the $50,000 as long as they pay off other personal debts with the funds, still qualifying for a full 1031 Exchange.

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Question 5: Advanced 1031 Exchange Strategies & Flexibility

An investor aims to sell a highly appreciated single-tenant retail property and replace it with multiple smaller, diversified multi-family units to spread risk. Which of the following 1031 Exchange identification rules best allows for this diversification strategy, maintaining eligibility for a 1031 Exchange?

a) The "Three Property Rule," where the investor can identify up to three properties of any value, regardless of the relinquished property's value, for their 1031 Exchange. b) The "200% Rule," allowing identification of any number of properties, provided their aggregate fair market value does not exceed 200% of the relinquished property's value for the 1031 Exchange. c) The "95% Rule," which states that if more than three properties are identified, the investor must acquire at least 95% of the aggregate value of all identified properties to qualify for the 1031 Exchange. d) All of the above are valid identification rules within a 1031 Exchange, offering flexibility for various investment strategies.

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The Ultimate DSCR Loan for Rental Property Quiz

Are you looking to expand your real estate investment portfolio? A DSCR loan might be the perfect tool to help you achieve your goals without relying on traditional income documentation. Test your knowledge with this quiz to see if you're ready to master the intricacies of a DSCR loan for rental property.

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Page 1 of 5

What is the primary factor a lender considers when approving a DSCR loan for rental property? A) The borrower's personal income and debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. B) The borrower's credit score and employment history. C) The property's potential rental income compared to its monthly expenses, known as the Debt Service Coverage Ratio. This is the key metric for a DSCR loan for rental property eligibility and approval. D) The total value of the borrower's existing investment properties and personal savings.

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How does a DSCR loan for a rental property differ from a conventional mortgage for a personal residence? A) A conventional mortgage requires a DSCR calculation, whereas a DSCR loan for a rental property does not. B) A DSCR loan for a rental property primarily focuses on the property's cash flow, allowing investors to qualify without traditional income verification, unlike a conventional mortgage which is based on personal income and liabilities. C) A conventional mortgage has a higher interest rate and stricter requirements than a DSCR loan for a rental property. D) A DSCR loan for a rental property is only available for commercial properties, not residential rental properties.

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What is an ideal Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) for a lender when evaluating a DSCR loan for a rental property? A) A DSCR of 0.75, indicating the property generates 75% of the income needed to cover its debt service. B) A DSCR of 1.00, meaning the property's income exactly equals its debt service. C) A DSCR of 1.25 or higher, as this indicates the property's income is greater than its expenses, making it a strong candidate for a DSCR loan for a rental property and providing a buffer for unexpected costs. D) A DSCR of 2.00, which is the standard minimum for all investment properties, regardless of location or market conditions.

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Which of the following expenses are typically included in the calculation of the Debt Service Coverage Ratio for a DSCR loan for a rental property? A) The property's mortgage payment (principal and interest), property taxes, and insurance, which are the core components used to determine if the property can support the debt. B) The property's mortgage payment, property taxes, insurance, and the borrower's personal credit card debt. C) The property's monthly rental income and all utility bills, regardless of who pays them. D) Only the principal and interest payment of the loan, as other expenses are not considered in a DSCR loan for a rental property calculation.

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Who would most benefit from using a DSCR loan for a rental property? A) A first-time homebuyer with a W-2 salary and a high debt-to-income ratio, who is looking to purchase a primary residence. B) A seasoned real estate investor with multiple properties who wants to expand their portfolio without using personal income to qualify, making a DSCR loan for a rental property the ideal financing solution for their needs. C) Someone looking to finance a primary residence with a low down payment and a government-backed loan. D) An individual with a very low credit score who cannot qualify for any other type of loan.

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• AI-driven investing tools simplify portfolio management and education.
• Fintech apps make investing accessible directly from your phone, often with gamification features.
• Inflation protection is top-of-mind, pushing demand for real assets and diversified ETFs.
• Sustainable investing (ESG) continues to grow — Gen Z cares about values as well as returns.

Step-by-Step: How to Invest Your First $100 in 2025

1. Define Your Purpose & Timeline
   • Is this for learning, building wealth, or a specific goal (like travel or a car)?
   • Decide if your investment horizon is short-term (1-3 years) or long-term (5+ years).
2. Choose the Right Investment Platform
   • Look for apps like Robinhood, Fidelity Spire, SoFi Invest, or Acorns–each supports fractional shares and low minimums.
   • Prioritize fee-free trading and robust educational resources.
3. Select Your Investment(s)
   • For $100, fractional shares of ETFs (like Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) or iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA ETF (ESGU)) offer diversification under one umbrella.
   • Want a thematic or individual stock? Use $10-20 for high-growth potential, and keep the majority in a broad-based ETF.
   • Consider high-yield savings or a Treasury ETF (like SHV or BIL) for lower risk and inflation protection.
4. Automate & Track Your Progress
   • Set up recurring deposits, even if it’s just $10/month. Consistency beats timing the market.
   • Use built-in app tracking or free tools like Personal Capital or Mint to monitor growth and spending.

Real-World Example: Ana’s First $100 Portfolio — 2025 Case Study

Ana, 23, wants to start investing but feels cash-strapped. She opens a Fidelity Spire account and splits her $100:

• $70 into VTI (Total Stock Market ETF)
• $20 into ESGU (Sustainable Stock Market ETF)
• $10 in a U.S. Treasury ETF for safety

After a year of monthly contributions and app-based learning, she’s built a 0 portfolio (+5% growth despite market swings) — and feels empowered to keep going.

Common Mistakes Gen Z Should Avoid When Starting Out

• Chasing hype: Viral TikToks and meme stocks can tempt, but lack of research = higher risk.
• Going ‘all in’ on crypto or a single tech stock: Always diversify, even at $100.
• Ignoring fees: Beware of hidden fees in micro-investing apps.
• Impatience: Expecting overnight wealth can lead to bad decisions. Remember, wealth builds over years.

Tools, Apps, and Resources for Gen Z Investors in 2025

• Robo-advisors: Betterment, Wealthfront for automated portfolios, advice, and low fees.
• Micro-Investing Apps: Acorns (automatically rounds up your purchases to invest spare change).
• Stock Analysis Tools: Morningstar for research and ratings.
• Financial Education: Investopedia for jargon-free learning.
• Budgeting Apps: You Need a Budget (YNAB), Mint for tracking cash flow and freeing up more to invest.

Misconceptions About Starting Small

• Myth: You need hundreds or thousands to start investing.
• Reality: Fractional shares mean $5 or $10 puts you on the path. The key is getting started—growth compounds!
• Myth: ETFs and index funds are too complex for beginners.
• Reality: Top investment platforms offer educational content and auto-invest features designed for new investors.

Investment Strategies for $100 in 2025: Customize for Your Goals

• Ultra Beginner: Pick a single broad ETF (like VTI or SPY), automate monthly buys, and check in quarterly.
• Value-Aligned: Choose an ESG ETF with companies committed to sustainability, diversity, or innovation.
• Growth-Focused: Split between a S&P 500 ETF and a small allocation to a trending sector ETF (like AI or clean energy).
• Low-Risk: Buffer with a short-term bond/Treasury ETF or a high-yield savings fund for stable returns.

FAQs – Investing for Gen Z in 2025

Q: Is it safe to invest 0 if I have student loans?

A: Yes, as long as you meet minimum loan payments. Even small investments build wealth and help you learn. Prioritize high-interest loan payoff first, but don’t neglect investing entirely.

Q: Can I lose all my money?

A: Market fluctuations can decrease portfolio value—diversifying with ETFs and avoiding speculative bets helps reduce risk.

Q: Should I pick stocks or ETFs?

A: Beginners should focus on ETFs for diversification. Consider single stocks only after building knowledge and a stable base.

Q: Does inflation make investing pointless?

A: No. In fact, investing is one of the best ways to outpace inflation over time.

Q: What’s the best platform for Gen Z in 2025?

A: Look for apps with low fees, easy interfaces, robo-advisor features, and solid educational content—Robinhood, Fidelity Spire, SoFi, and Acorns are all top picks.

Next Steps: Start Your Investing Journey With Confidence

1. Download a top investing app (see suggestions above) and open your account.
2. Deposit $100 (or less—just start!) and select a broad-based ETF or robo-advisor portfolio.
3. Automate $10-$20 monthly contributions to build discipline and harness compounding.
4. Commit to learning: Use the financial education portals provided to expand your knowledge as your portfolio grows.

✅ Small Business Resources 

• SBA – Small Business Administration
  https://www.sba.gov

• SCORE Mentors (Free Mentoring & Workshops)
  https://www.score.org
• Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)
  https://americassbdc.org

Are You an SBA Real Estate Loan Expert?

Test your in-depth knowledge on using SBA Loans for owner-occupied commercial Real Estate acquisition. These questions delve into the critical details that can impact your business's growth and financial strategy.

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Page 1 of 5

For an existing commercial property, what is the minimum owner-occupancy percentage required for an SBA 7(a) real estate loan, and does this specific scenario qualify?

A manufacturing company plans to acquire a 30,000 sq ft industrial real estate facility using an SBA 7(a) Loan. The company initially needs 18,000 sq ft for its operations and intends to lease out the remaining 12,000 sq ft.

A) 60%; Yes, it qualifies. B) 51%; Yes, it qualifies. C) 75%; No, it does not qualify. D) 60%; No, it does not qualify, as they are leasing out a portion.

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Which of the following sets most accurately represents additional cost categories that can typically be financed within an SBA 504 Loan for a commercial real estate project?

Hint: Beyond the straightforward purchase of a commercial real estate property, an SBA 504 Loan is highly effective for comprehensive projects.

A) Business inventory, working capital, and employee salaries. B) Building renovations, long-term machinery essential to operations within the property, and soft costs like architectural fees. C) Advertising expenses, short-term equipment leases, and utility deposits. D) Personal real estate investments, vehicles for personal use, and stock market investments.

Page 3 of 5

Between an SBA 7(a) Loan and an SBA 504 Loan, which program generally offers the lowest typical borrower down payment for a commercial real estate acquisition, and what is that common minimum percentage for established businesses?

A highly profitable professional services firm in a competitive market wants to purchase its office real estate with minimal upfront capital. The firm's owners prioritize cash flow and liquidity.

A) SBA 7(a) Loan; 15% B) SBA 504 Loan; 10% C) SBA 7(a) Loan; 5% D) SBA 504 Loan; 20%

Page 4 of 5

For new construction, what is the initial minimum owner-occupancy percentage required, and what is the maximum timeframe to meet the full owner-occupancy threshold, for an SBA Real Estate Loan?

A fast-growing tech startup plans to construct a new 50,000 sq ft headquarters using an SBA Loan. They will immediately occupy 35,000 sq ft and have a definitive plan to occupy the remaining 15,000 sq ft within two years as their team expands.

A) Initial 51%, full 80% within 5 years. B) Initial 60%, full 80% within 3 years. C) Initial 75%, full 100% within 1 year. D) Initial 51%, full 100% within 2 years.

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What is this crucial requirement, and what fundamental principle does it underscore for the lender?

When securing an SBA Loan for a commercial real estate purchase, principal owners with a 20% or greater ownership stake are almost universally required to provide a specific type of assurance beyond the collateral of the real estate itself.

A) A fixed-rate interest payment commitment, demonstrating long-term stability. B) A first-lien position on all personal assets, ensuring full recovery. C) A personal guarantee, signifying the owners' personal commitment to loan repayment. D) A business plan with projected revenue growth of at least 15% annually, showing future viability.

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Remember: The best way to start investing in 2025 is to jump in with what you have, stay consistent, and focus on your growth. Whether your goal is financial independence, wealth building, or just learning the ropes, your first 0 investment can set the stage for a lifetime of smarter money moves.

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✅ Real Estate Investor Resources

• AirDNA (Short-Term Rental Data)
  https://www.airdna.co

• Rentometer (Rent Comps)
  https://www.rentometer.com
• Zillow Research & Data
  https://www.zillow.com/research

DSCR Loan IQ Quiz!

Test your knowledge of Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loans!

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Page 1 of 3

What is the primary factor a lender focuses on when approving a DSCR loan for an investment property? a) The borrower's personal debt-to-income (DTI) ratio b) The property's ability to generate enough income to cover its mortgage payments c) The borrower's credit score history over the past 10 years d) The total number of investment properties the borrower already owns

Page 2 of 3

If a property has a Net Operating Income (NOI) of $5,000 per month and its total monthly debt service (PITI) is $4,000, what is its DSCR? a) 0.8x b) 1.0x c) 1.25x d) 5.0x

Page 3 of 3

Which type of borrower most commonly benefits from using a DSCR loan? a) First-time homebuyers purchasing a primary residence b) Investors with a strong W-2 income and minimal tax deductions c) Self-employed individuals or those with complex income who want to avoid traditional income verification d) Homeowners looking to refinance their primary residence for a lower interest rate

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GHC Funding DSCR LOAN, SBA LOAN, BRIDGE LOAN

Contact GHC Funding Today. Main: 833-572-4327 Email: sales@ghcfunding.com

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