Conventional vs. Investment Loans for a Duplex

[Kristin Caras]

Hi all! Fairly basic question. I am looking at a two unit property that is fully rented, and can't make the numbers work using an FHA loan. I have the capital to put a little more down with a conventional loan (15-20%), but my mortgage lender is telling me that if I am not planning to live there, I would need to put down 25% for an investment style loan. Any ways around this?

I am interested in using this property to house hack down the line, but the property already has two long term tenants and I have no immediate need to move/no living expenses currently. Would love to let these tenants keep paying off the property for the next year or two if possible. Thanks!