should I put down a 20% down payment to avoid mortgage insurance?

[Jon Rylander]

Hello, BP

I'm looking to invest in a duplex in st. paul MN. I plan to live in one unit to obide by any owner occupant requirements but im debating if i should just go with a FHA loan at 3.5% down payment but I hear you can save alot in the long run by putting down a 20% down payment. If i do a 20% DP then i wont have much for any rehab or updating that needs to be done. what option have you guys done and what are the pros and cons going either way? thank you guys for being so helpful on this site

Thanks, Jon Rylander