FHA Loan on Duplex requiring 15% down? What happen to 3.5%|Newbie

[Joey Campbell]

Hello BiggerPockets!

First post, been lurking and googling "(xyz topic) biggerpockets" for some time now.  That said thank you to all who have contributed to the community and forum information.

On to my specific question. I am looking at an off market Duplex in my neck of the woods in North Carolina. First RE deal, going to House Hack my first Multiplex to get started in the warm market with something that could use some elbow grease. The lender I am currently working with has many years experience and has informed I would need 15% down since its a 2-unit property, FHA or Conventional. Perhaps we are missing something when its put into his AUD/DU?

So who out there has gotten a FHA loan on a Duplex with with only 3.5% down or somewhere in between?

https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/03/2...

PS: How can I search the members sections for Lenders only? Was hoping to get some local contacts.  

Thanks again!