@Royce Talbo, et al,Remember to take into account the time value of money.Inflation means costs go up while the purchasing power of each dollar goes down.You also mentioned (medical) insurance.

The comps there are in the 140-170 range)2

Also how far away is power?

The roads of the world are paved with good intentions and the reality is that money is a powerful motivator.

My bank has me approved for 215k but I want a home in the 100k range.

In there, you will learn how I bought a property no money down (using a powerful strategy called "subject to") and made over $30,000 profit on a house I sold rent to own.

I would like to try to get a FHA loan on a duplex in the $60k or less range.

I don't actually own the property yet, but the owner has executed a power of attorney for me to manage it on her behalf.  

A smaller house on the same block sold for $106k, other sales range between $65k-$85k. 

What I have noticed, however, is that most duplexes within a decent price range are completely rented out!