Thinking of getting started in duplex investing - target market- students

[William Wong]

Hello,

I was thinking of getting my start in real estate by purchasing a duplex and renting it out to students. There is a college town about two hours from where I  live. It is fairly small, only about 100,000 people and the University is the main source of direct/indirect employment.

I don't expect rapid increases in house prices but I do expect house prices to remain relatively stable.

I was wondering whether anyone has experience with student rentals. My main questions are the following:

1) What are the main things to look out for when renting out to students?

2) What were some of the mistakes you made and how might I be able to avoid them?

Thanks.