Triplex with strange layout

[Sarah Santa Cruz]

Hello! 

I'm looking for opinions on a triplex with an unusual layout. 

I own 4 SFR, and I'm looking to buy my first small multifamily. I'm interested in a single-story triplex that is definitely a fixer upper, but I think I can get it for a really good price, and it would cash flow well.

Two of the units are 1/1 and have a normal layout, and the 3rd unit is a 3/1 that seems to have been pieced together by combining a 1/1 unit with a garage or something like that. The layout is pretty strange. There are basically 2 living rooms, and one of the bedrooms can only be entered by walking through another bedroom. I'm concerned that it wouldn't be truly/legally considered a 3 bedroom, and also that it might not appeal to people because of the strange layout. One good thing about the unit is that there is a lot of space because of the 2 living areas, so maybe that would appeal to some tenants. 

For additional context, it's in a C+ neighborhood in a military town.

The positives are the price of the property, as well as the electric and water meters all being completely separate for each unit. And it is close to a lot of desirable amenities in town, despite it being a lower income part of town. There is also a very large backyard area that I would probably add fencing so each unit has its own private yard.

Would the strange layout in the 3/1 unit be a dealbreaker for you? Any opinions or wisdom from past experience with this type of situation is appreciated!

[Mason Hickman]

@Sarah Santa Cruz

The "bedroom" that is only accessed through another bedroom is not considered a bedroom because it needs access from a common area of the house. It wouldn't be a total dealbreaker but I wouldn't assume you will get market rent for a standard 3 bedroom. Discount your rent in your proforma. Weird layouts deter the best renters.