House Hacking: Duplex Unit vs. Single Family Rooms

[Andrew Abbott]

As a first time home-buyer and new investor I have been looking to purchase a duplex using FHA and occupy one unit while renting out the other to help cover mortgage payment and gain experience as a landlord.

However, I'm not finding very many multi-family properties on the market in the metro Detroit area... and none that make much sense from an investment standpoint.

Does it make more sense to look for a 3 or 4 bedroom single-family home and rent out the extra rooms to some roommates?

I'm looking for some advantages/disadvantages to both strategies.  Any advice is appreciated!