How to shop for duplexes

[Mike Greenberg]

Hello, I'm currently shopping (remotely) for 1, 2, and 3-plexes in Tennessee and looking for advice in particular on duplexes. It seems to be that most listings have the same basic attributes: built mid century, usually some minor renovation in the 80s or 90s, often look like they're renter ready but need some cosmetic work at least (my current tolerance for rehab work is very limited at the moment). The MLS / Zillow listings tend to not have a lot of detail, for example type of heating and cooling is often vague, whether there's existing tenants isn't often stated (although if MLS has a "gross monthly rent" figure I'm assuming it is), and there's often only pictures from one of the two units so it's hard to tell what shape both units are in, or what their layouts, features, and amenities are.

So that I'm not sending my agent to view every duplex in town (especially because I'd imagine the listing agent would have to find a time that both tenants agreed to), is there a way to more quickly weed in or out all these faceless duplexes? They're mostly right at the 1% rule of price to gross rent, and I know how to filter by neighborhood and location, but it's mostly the structure itself and what to look for (or avoid).

Thanks much!