Need advice analyzing deals

[Isaac Buitrago]

As I am going into my first deal, I am debating between buying a single family in the Round Rock/Austin area or buying a duplex in the San Antonio area. The pros and cons of both options vary. The pros of buying a single family in the Round Rock/Austin area is the sweet appreciation and equity I can build over two years. The pros of buying a duplex in San Antonio are cashflow and some appreciation over the next two years. I would like to use some formulas to make a more informed decision. Are there any formulas, spreadsheets, ratios, etc... I could use to determine which option would be best ?