House hacking strategy

[Michael Orr]

Hi all! I've posted about this before but am looking for some in-depth comparison to help me choose my strategy. I'm new to REI and am very eager to get started in the metro Detroit area. Initially I wanted to purchase a duplex or triplex and live in one unit while renting out the other units.....this however is looking grim because there aren't many duplexes on the market in the Royal Oak/Ferndale areas and the ones that are for sale don't seem like there would be positive cash flow by my math. My other option is to buy a SFR and rent out a room (already have a renter in line) and then save up to buy another house while living in that and then fully rent it out. Are there advantages (other than taxes) to house hacking a multi family residence over a SFR? If so, what are they? There are many more SFRs for sale and resale value down the line would benefit a SFR to a duplex or triplex. I'm meeting with a realtor today to discuss. Hopefully I find some insight. Any insight is helpful! Thank you.