Ideal # of bedrooms and baths for 4-plex

[Austin V.]

I am going to be constructing a 4-plex to live in as an owner occupant with an FHA Loan. I was wondering what everyone sees as the best configuration for low turnover and help me to maintain a competitive edge. I was considering doing 4/2 1250 square feet units but am also considering 3/2 and possible even 2/2 or 2/1. I had a 4-plex in the Phoenix market that was a 1/1 and the turnover was very high and the tenant mix was very high maintenance.

Also curious if anyone has insight on a single vs 2-story unit?

[Austin V.]

I am located in a rural area of Arizona. Currently we are experiencing very high demand from several mines that are hiring in the area, rents have jumped 50% during the last 2 years and I have a waiting list for my other properties. However I want to be ready to weather the next mining downturn with quality tenants that aren't dependent on mining. Also because of the low interest and fixed rate of an FHA mortgage(and the fact that I am going to be living in one of the units) I would prefer to go with larger sized units. I guess I could always set it up as 4/2 with a large kitchen and living room that could later be divided into 8 2/1's after my occupancy requirement has expired :).