Small complex or 3-4 unit properties?

[Eric James]

I'm in the process of moving to TX and am purchasing a primary residence. I asked my mortgage broker approximately how much my DTI ratio would allow me to purchase for a multi family property(s) and was surprised to learn it's high enough to allow me to purchase something like a 10-15 unit property, or alternatively 2 (or maybe 3) triplexes or 4-plexes. I've owned a triplex for the past 7 years. Eventually I would like to purchase a small apartment complex, but I don't know if I would be better off going the multiple triplex/quad route first, and then later trade up. Do you have any thoughts on the advantages of each possibility? Thanks.