Buy now or wait?

[Paulina L.]

I am eyeing a duplex in my hometown (not LA) where I'd put down 10%. I'd have to pay for my LA rent while also paying for the duplex which total to approx 35-40% of my after tax pay. With paying for the duplex it's -$23K in the first year, then -$10K for 4 years. Cashflows at year 5. Based on appreciation it would still do well, but does not account for any potential repairs that arise outside of me buffering 5% repairs, 5% CapEx, and 5% vacancy.

I’d like to get something there as I intend to move back to my hometown in 3-4 years and see it as a place I would be long term. However with the negative cashflow, is it worth it? I also can put 20% down, which would make it cashflow but given it’s my first property I am wary of putting too much down upfront. Would love advice/thoughts or if better to wait when I can house hack instead.