Land for a home vs duplex

[Kevin Reid]

I've been posting about buying some lots to develop recently and we are considering a few more options. We are looking to buy either 2 SFR lots, or we have an option for a Duplex lot now for about the same price. Both would be developed into a rental.

We have looked at existing duplexes in the area, and most need a lot of work. They are also smaller and don't command the rent of the newer ones in the area that go for a premium. 

So what's the better play here? It's obviously cheaper to build and maintain a duplex then 2 seperate homes. But the homes can sell for a bit more later on. The duplex seems safer being if one side is rented you can make your mortgage payment.

Thoughts?