@Account Closed

If you follow the rule of thumbs with current inflated prices most properties in Florida will not make sense right now. Even with the interest rate hikes, investors with cash are still buying and relocating their cash. As for a Duplex that you live in, to make it make sense is to live basically live mortgage or rent free. The ROI doesn't always need to 8-10% CoC return. You are gaining wealth by not putting out any or very little of your own budget to live. You have an asset that has a mortgage and another person is paying it down, but you get the tax benefit.

You might want to consider expanding your search too.  Many new duplexes will not be in the areas you listed.  Might want to look south in Middleburg, Palm Coast or north near the Airport. Some of the nicest will be at the beach but will cost a pretty penny, but your rent should cover most of your mortgage.  At the beach you could also AirBnB the other side and self Clean and manage.  You would have a very nice return on that scenario.