What mistakes did you make in purchasing/managing a duplex?

[Daniel Higuera]

Hey BP, quick question for you. I'm in the process of purchasing a duplex in the LA area maybe even the Inland Empire (due to my agents strong recommendation). Plan is to get an FHA loan on the purchase and I will be living in one of the units for the required amount of time and move out soon after to rent the 2nd unit. I have 5% to put down.

My question for you is: what mistakes did you make that your advise new duplex owners to avoid?