5-Point Duplex Checklist

A duplex can cover your mortgage and start your portfolio, but a few problems can sink the deal before you close. Run every duplex you're considering through these five checks, from the Real Estate Rookie team, before you make an offer.

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1. The 5-point duplex checklist

Tick each one off for the property you're looking at. If any check fails, renegotiate or walk away.

Zoning & occupancy: Confirm duplex use is legal today (and tomorrow). Check city zoning, minimum lot size, and owner-occupancy rules.
Split utilities: Verify separate electric, gas, and water meters, or budget the cost to split them. Shared utilities can kill cash flow and tenant harmony.
Rent-to-mortgage spread: Pro-forma gross rent ÷ projected PITI should be at least 1.0×. If not, renegotiate the price or plan for a higher and better use.
Major systems ×2: Roof, HVAC, water heater, sewer line. Inspect age and condition for both units; one failure can wipe out a year's cash flow.
Exit options: Is there demand from both owner-occupants and investors? FHA 3.5% down buyers boost resale value and equity.

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The PDF has a notes column for every item. Print it for your walk-through.

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Tony Robinson

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5-Point Duplex Checklist

1. The 5-point duplex checklist

Take this checklist with you

Tony Robinson

Find an investor-friendly agent

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