Hi everyone, I'm a new in this community and living in Houston, after reading few books about REI, now i would like to take action with my first property. However, There are some issues that I am wondering:

1) Right now I'm renting a room for couple hundreds/month of a relative, should i buy first property as SFH or Duplex? and Do i have to live there when i buy it? because i think if i still live with my relative, i can rent out my first property

2) i just have 1099 job with small saving , am i possible for loan home? or anyway i can get low down-payment?

Can everyone give me some advice that i can make decision easier ? I'm willing to getting knowledge.

@Hao Pham

I would get in touch with a few lenders to see what is possible for you as far as a loan. Typically if you do a low down payment you would have to live on the property for a year.

SFRs and duplexes are simply vehicles to get you to a destination. At this stage, buy whichever type property meets your pre-established cash flow criteria. Don't lock in on multifamily at this stage, you still have some learnings ahead and it is more important to take a first step. Small multifamily demand far exceeds current supply, thus it will be more likely to locate an attractive SFR deal. On the loan, you will receive better terms if your expressed intent is to utilize the property as your primary residence, but you have the right to change your mind, later. Later could mean as little as one day later. Lender will want to see income of last 2 years tax returns, W2 vs 1099 is not as material.

@Cody Neumann thanks your opinion Cody, I'll keep it in mind

@Lee Hampton yes sir, so you mean that i just start with a small multifamily first, live in there for a year as primer residence, rent out the others room

@Hao Pham

Welcome to BP! You have found the right place for a plethora of information on REI.

Read Beginner’s Guide to help you get started: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing

Best of luck!