Most major cities are going to have a more cyclical market while more rural cities and small towns (resort towns excluded), tend to be more linear.

Account Closed- a FHA can be used to buy a 2plex  as long as you plan to live in one unit ....FHA cant  be used for a  true  investment  duplex.....many buyers  are  using  a  seller or realtor  credit ( aka  concession )  that  can be used to cover the  closing costs / loan fees / prepaid  taxes ins and interest ....if a buyer can locate a seller  willing to  provide a  credit - then the  3.5%  of the price  might be  possible to be the only funds  needed  (  excluding  fix up costs  and emergency  )  

Means to exclude certain matches.  

Total hospitable space: exclude bathroom, kitchen, laundry, and storage.