Affording first duplex, not owner occupied

[Alex Markle]

Hi everyone:

I'm currently 1.5 years in on a 30 year fixed rate mortgage on my house that I live in. I'd like to find a duplex I can afford to rent out for my first investment but since it won't be owner occupied, lenders want 25% down. In the Boston area, that could mean $50,000 on a $200,000 duplex. Since I've only lived in my house for a year and a half, I don't have any equity to speak of. Does anyone have any suggestions as to how to come up with that kind of money? Or should I look farther away from my house for the sub-100k properties? Thanks for your advice!

Alex

[Alex Markle]

Hi @Rick McCray,

I could swing about $15 - $20k for a down payment. I'm still figuring out how much I can afford in carrying costs each month. Thanks!