Just getting into the real estate industry

[Christopher Ruzicka]

When starting out in the real estate industry is it advantageous to buy a 2 unit duplex with an FHA loan or owner's occupancy loan at 3.5% down, rent out the other unit and live there for a year? Or can you go straight into buying a SFR home with no experience at 15%-25% down? I have read somewhere that I have to provide at least two years of experience whether it be landlording, owning a home, or being a realtor. Is this true? Also when I am trying to make my first purchase on a home what things do I need to have regarding tax history, credit check and background check in order to complete the sale?